Baby Hampshire May/June 2017

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BABYHAMPSHIRE.CO.UK

Jessica ALBA

TALKS MOTHERHOOD AND HER HONEST BABY EMPIRE

Earth

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FAMILY FUN IN THE SUN!

What’s on in your local area

DIVIDE & CONQUER

How shared parental leave really works

Film director

RICHARD CURTIS What new dads need to know

The ethical way to raise a family

• ECO-FRIENDLY FASHION • THE NATURAL SHOPPING GUIDE • WEANING THE HEALTHY WAY

SEEING DOUBLE £2.99

Meet the cutest twins in town

Organic New recipes Steam cooked Texture and lumps Great value Try our new no added sugar breakfast and 100% fruit jars with an extra wide opening – perfect for feeding with a spoon.

Our organic range of 60 nutritious jars are sure to meet the needs of your little one’s taste buds.

The m ment they’re ready for weaning

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Serena

PHOTOGRAPHED BY SASHA DE PAZ

s yo an see ro er oto not only is ont old erena a or eo s tot b t s e s ery inde endent and rio s e li es it er and dad Ra el and eo in Islin ton ondon babyhampshire.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2017 | 5

CONTENTS MAY/JU N E 2017

Millar wears cotton dress and matching bloomers, £66, La Coqueta. Leather pram shoes, £24, The Little White Company.

24

Jessica Alba talk

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PHOTOGRAPHY: TOM LEIGHTON, ADMEDIA, INC/SIPA USA/PA IMAGES

FEATURES

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34 EARTH MOTHER Actress and mum Jessica Alba talks business, babies and maintaining a happy, healthy home 41 TOT GEAR We put the Uppababy Cruz pushchair through its paces and round up the latest strolling products 44 DIVIDE & CONQUER Meet the dads who chose to take up shared parental leave 46 “WHAT I WISH I’D KNOWN” Film director Richard Curtis shares his fatherhood advice 50 LABOUR OF LOVE Louisa van den Bergh on the unpredictability of giving birth 59 NATURE AT PLAY Eco-friendly wooden toys little ones will love 62 TASTES TO DELIGHT Organic springtime weaning recipes for baby 72 EDUCATION EXPERTS We put your Early Years questions to those in the know

STYLE

19

SHOP THE ELEMENTS Adorable pieces for baby, inspired by earth, air, water and fire 28 TWO OF A KIND Celebrating the precious bond between twins with new-season fashion

REGULARS

13

BABY NEWS Keeping you in the know with all things great and small 17 DATES FOR YOUR DIARY Goings-on around Hampshire over the next two months 26 STORYTIME WITH DADDY Book releases perfect for papa and baby 39 PARTY TIME: IN THE GARDEN Carole Middleton shares her planning and style tips for an outdoor do 49 DIARY OF A MUM Martha Alexander is ready to get fit again… she thinks 53 THE BREASTFEEDING CAFÉ Your common questions answered by Sioned Hilton Great reads for papa and baby on p.26

54 MEET THE EXPERTS Advice from our healthcare professionals 57 TIME TO TALK Marina Fogle and Chiara Hunt of The Bump Class discuss the ninth month of pregnancy 58 THE REVIEW The best travel cots to pack for your little ones 61 FOOD NEWS The latest offerings for mini diners and busy families 67 TRAVEL NEWS Prepare to pack your bags and travel in style with baby in tow 69 DIARY OF A NIGHT NANNY Georgie Bateman is on hand to restore confidence in new mum Laura 71 EDUCATION NEWS All you need to know from the classroom and beyond 75 MINI AGENDA What’s on in and around the county throughout May and June 82 INSPIRE Talking business, and why being organic is so important, with Mori founders Akin Onal and Cameron Millar

babyhampshire.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2017 | 7

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Naturalmat Baby Boutique, 99 Talbot Road, Notting Hill, London W11 2AT

e e ra e a in s flora and fauna with Next’s range of tropical and woodland prints From a selection at next.co.uk

Cotton muslin square £24, bonpoint.com

EDITORS

LETTER

KATE FREUD, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

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BabyHampshire

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Join us online…

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We’d love to hear what you think about our latest issue

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PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG

Cotton romper £49.95, noe-zoe.com

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Women’s suede jacket £165, topshop.com

Our colourful shopping pages (p.19) are inspired by the elements this issue – earth, air, water and fire – and Carole Middleton lets us in on how to throw the perfect garden party, immersing your little ones in nature (p.39).

Alice Fotheringham cooks up an organic feast for baby with seasonal ingredients in mind (p.62) and we capture the cutest twosomes in our heartwarming twins shoot (p.28).

And finally, in celebration of Father’s Day on Sunday 18 June, the inimitable writer and director Richard Curtis – himself a father of four – gives his invaluable advice on what he wishes he had known before becoming a dad for the first time (p.46), Rob Kemp discusses the benefits of Shared Parental Leave (p.44) and Emma O’Donovan cherry picks the best new reads for papa and baby to enjoy together (p.26).

Happy Father’s Day to all the daddies out there, we hope you will be spoilt rotten!

KE

Yellow Pelota bloomers £32, scandimini.co.uk

Hello! And welcome to our eco issue.

When your days are spent soothing a teething baby or negotiating with a recalcitrant toddler (I’m currently living this one with my two year old!) it’s hard to find a moment to spare a thought for the bigger issues, let alone global warming or sustainability.

But these are universal concerns that affect each one of us, and we like to think that, with small lifestyle changes here and there, together we can make a difference for our children’s future.

In our house, we’ve started using environmentally-friendly nappies and wipes (until I can face the potty training), encouraging the children to scoot rather than all piling into the car, and this summer we’ll be spending weekends by the Suffolk seaside instead of hopping on a plane, in some small effort to reduce our family’s carbon footprint.

Demonstrating her eco credentials on a much larger scale, we spoke to Hollywood star Jessica Alba, whose organic lifestyle brand Honest was motivated by the arrival of her own two daughters (p.34), and we join the founders of Mori (p.82) to find out why being organic is so important to them.

IR E.C

@BabyHampshire

Women’s cotton trainers £39.99, shop.mango.com babyhampshire.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2017 | 9

Where did you grow up?

Bromley, South East London.

What do you love about this time of year?

The days are warmer and longer, and everything is in bloom, so I spend as much time as possible outdoors, soaking it all up.

Best holiday you’ve ever had?

A few years ago, I spent Christmas in Goa with my family. We spent Christmas Day eating curry on the beach, which was pretty special!

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CONTRIBUTORS

Where were you born?

St Thomas’ Hospital, London. a s o r rs readin memor Being huddled under a patchwork quilt reading Corduroy by Don Freeman.

The best thing about being a mum?

My new superhuman ability to incapacitate small people though the power of tickling.

Emma rounds up the best books for dads and their little ones on p.26.

BABY HAMPSHIRE ONLINE When you’re on-the-go or grabbing a coffee and have a o ent to s are di in and et yo r daily di ital fi

b b Editor-in-Chief Kate Freud Managing Editor Rebecca Moore Features Editor Danielle Wilkins Editorial Assistant Annie Quinton Creative Director Chloë Collyer Designer Natalie Dourado Contributing Editors Clare Byam-Cook, Emma Cannon, Georgina Cohen, Marina Fogle, Chiara Hunt, Carole Middleton, Jade Parfitt, Natalie Pinkham, Kate Silverton Publisher Caroline Scott Finance Director Vicki Gavin Digital Media Manager James Dobson Brand Managers Chatty Dobson, Ginny Maclean Marketing Executive Catrina Linz Head of Market Leshna Pirie Sales Executives Harriet Cottrell, Emma Payne, Katie Jackson Managing Director Paul Dobson Deputy Managing Director Steve Ross Baby Hampshire is published by The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd, Jubilee House, 2 Jubilee Place, London SW3 3TQ Tel: 020 7349 3700 | Fax: 020 7349 3701 Email: babylondon@chelseamagazines.com

Baby Hampshire Print ISSN 1748-0973 Online ISSN 2059-9811 | Distributed by Seymour Distribution Ltd. 2 East Poultry Avenue, London, EC1A 9PT | Tel: 020 7429 4000 Fax: 020 7429 4001 | Production All Points Media Printed in England by William Gibbons ©The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd 2016 All rights reserved

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PHOTOGRAPHER: KEN COPSEY MODEL: ROCCO Rocco wears linen romper, £67, and cotton top, £65, both Caramel.

With over 30 configurations and an integrated ride-on-board, the new British designed and engineered iCandy Orange is packed with innovation. Featuring our trademark elevator adaptors, unique 'cinema' double seating mode and a 64 litre basket, the Orange lead the field whilst still being compact enough to fit through a standard door.

Brilliantly flexible, beautifully crafted and absolutely futureproof.

+44 (0)1978 664362

www.hauckuk.com

info@hauckuk.com

baby

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CARRY ME HOME

BabyBjörn’s spring collection has been inspired by the modern-day dad. Six ordinary fathers front the campaign, along with their children, modelling the limited-edition designs of the Baby Carrier One. Styles include mesh and cotton options in denim and a blue tropicalleaf print. Suitable for use from birth up to three years. From £134.99, babybjorn.co.uk

POP-UP PICTURE COMPANY COMES TO CHEWTON GLEN THIS SUMMER. BETWEEN 9-29 JULY, ENJOY A DIFFERENT FILM EVERY EVENING IN THE HOTEL’S PARKLAND, ALONG WITH A TWO-COURSE MEAL FROM CHEF RICK STEIN’S CURATED MENU WHILE YOU WATCH. THERE’S EVEN ICE CREAM FROM TOM KERRIDGE SERVED DURING THE INTERVAL! £65, POPUPPICTURECOMPANY.CO.UK

babyhampshire.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2017 | 13

NEWS

TREASURE TROVE

Lobella Loves is a new online shopping destination that brings together a whole host of beautiful brands for baby. The curated edit of clothing, toys, gifts and nursery essentials also includes a selection of goodies for mum. And with every sale, a donation is made to Cocoon Family Support, a charity helping those suffering with postnatal depression. lobellaloves.com

A GREENER GIFT

WIN A SUPPORI SLING WITH METANIUM

To make your days out with baby even easier, Metanium is giving away four award-winning Suppori slings (RRP £45), suitable from six months of age, plus a Metanium Everyday Easy Spray Barrier Lotion with each one. The double-action spray protects and moisturises skin to help prevent nappy rash. Two sprays should be enough to form a thin protective layer; pat around the area to maximise coverage – no need to rub in. The handy spray is ideal to keep in your changing bag, too. Enter online at babyhampshire.co.uk/competitions

SLEEP SOUNDLY Baby won’t sleep at night? There’s an app for that…

Johnson’s Bedtime Baby Sleep app allows you to track your child’s snooze habits, access personalised advice, and create a playlist of lullabies and ambient sounds.

You can also learn how to incorporate Johnson’s threestep bedtime routine, with interactive how-to videos, proven to improve the quality of baby’s slumber.

Free on iTunes

Give a gift that lasts forever with The Present Tree. Choose from a selection of potted saplings, each of which symbolises something different, and it’ll be wrapped in organza and delivered to your nominated address.

Hawthorn is a good choice if you’re buying for a new baby; it’s said to represent love and protection. From £35, thepresenttree.com

STYLISH SCENARIOS French illustrator Jean Jullien’s new book makes a sweet addition to baby’s bookshelf. Before & After features bold graphics to make learning playful and imaginative, showing little readers a series of humorous outcomes as they flip back and forth. Suitable for ages two years and up. £8.95, Phaidon

MAMAS & PAPAS’ LOVED FOR LIFE INITIATIVE IS ENCOURAGING PARENTS TO REFRESH AND RECYCLE THEIR PUSHCHAIRS. TRADEIN YOUR MODEL FOR A GIFT CARD WORTH UP TO £140; SHOP ITS RANGE OF RECONDITIONED BUGGIES AND SAVE UP TO 50%, AND EVEN REPAIR OR CUSTOMISE YOUR PRAM WITH SPARE PARTS AND ADD-ONS. MAMASANDPAPAS.COM/LOVED-FOR-LIFE

14 | MAY/JUN 2017 | babyhampshire.co.uk

Jonathan Adler brings his signature colours and prints to Fisher Price’s latest range

FRIENDLY FUNDRAISER On Friday 5 May, The Naked Midwives is hosting an event at the New Forest Birth Centre to raise money for its aromatherapy facility. There will be stalls from local providers, including homeopathy and family photography, as well as tours of the facilities for parents-to-be. Register your interest now.

2pm to 5pm, thenakedmidwives.co.uk/events

THE STYLE SET

Designer Jonathan Adler is bringing panache to playtime with a new range of toys for Fisher Price. His iconic prints and contemporary colour combinations adorn the line of sensory toys which are perfect for tummy time, plus a range of style pegs which can be attached to baby’s pushchair. From £4.99, argos.co.uk

ELMER THE ICON It may be 28 years since he first sprung onto the scene, but Elmer the Elephant is still as popular as ever. In the run-up to Elmer Day on 27 May, a whole new range of books, toys and clothing dedicated to the patchwork elephant has been released. Shop in store from Tu at Sainsbury’s. andersenpress.co.uk/elmer

PRINTS CHARMING

KEEP THEM COSY Aussie favourite ErgoPouch, known for its range of sleepsuits and swaddles, has launched in John Lewis. Made from natural fibres that are gentle on delicate skin, the sleeping bags keep baby warm without the need for blankets, and feature two-way zippers for easy nappy changing. Available in a number of colourways. From £34.99, johnlewis.com

Update your pram for the new season with Stokke’s summer kit. The new pattern, available in three pastel shades, features woodland animals and flowers, and fits various models from Stokke’s range of pushchairs.

The kit includes additional ventilation zippers and is made using UPF 50+ fabrics to keep baby both cool and protected. £119, stokke.com

babyhampshire.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2017 | 15

RUNNING HEAD

WIN!

A Silver Cross Nursery Set D

ecorating your baby’s nursery is one of life’s most exciting journeys, from picking the shade of paint to choosing the finer details to make it a unique space.

To celebrate this special time, Baby Hampshire has teamed up with Silver Cross to give one lucky reader a Soho Cot Bed and Nursery Wardrobe Combo set – worth an impressive £950 – to form the basis for baby’s new bedroom.

With plenty of innovative features to help you on your parenting journey, the Soho is the smart space solution, offering a wardrobe, changing station and dresser in one ultra-compact yet stylish product. The patented one-touch hideaway changing table folds out when needed and then stores neatly away when not in use.

Designed with longevity in mind, the full-size cot bed has three base height positions, transforming into a toddler bed to grow with your child from newborn until they are approximately four years old. You’ll find optimum storage with three deep soft-close drawers, double rails in the wardrobe and smart little storage compartments for all those baby essentials.

The stylish and contemporary design, in all its white woodgrain-finished glory, complete with square brushed steel handles, has a universal appeal to suit any style, and will give one lucky winner the perfect base for their dream nursery.

And as with all Silver Cross nursery sets, the company will even send someone to build the furniture for you – now, it doesn’t get much better than that! bh

WORTH £950

Visit babyhampshire.co.uk/competitions COMPETITION CLOSES AT 11:59PM ON 15 JUNE 2017. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT SILVERCROSSBABY.COM.

16 | MAY/JUN 2017 | babyhampshire.co.uk

FEEL GOOD THIS SUMMER…

Wake up to organic

MAY

On Wednesday 14 June, stores and cafés across the country will be serving up free organic mini breakfasts for the ‘Wake Up To Organic’ campaign, which aims to show just how simple it is to make the switch. Find your local store at wakeuptoorganic.co.uk

1 STEPS AHEAD

May sees the start of National Walking Month, and this year the UK charity Living Streets is campaigning for you to #Try20 – so venture out and take baby for a stroll for 20 minutes every day. livingstreets.org.uk

8 HAT’S ON!

SPF at the ready – today is the start of Sun Awareness Week.

For more skin-saving tips and advice, visit bad.org.uk

dates for your

14 PREPARE

FOR PUDDLES

Grab your wellies and get stuck in with Peppa Pig’s Muddy Puddle Walk for Save the Children. Today’s your last chance! Register in advance at savethechildren.org.uk

16 FEEDING FRIENDS

Mustela SPF50+ Sun Spray £29, escentual.com

Medela’s Big Breastfeeding Café is back. Sign up for a package to host your own Café at home by emailing medelamums@gmail.com

DIARY

Pens at the ready, we have a few suggestions to keep you and baby busy for the next two months

19 TUCK IN

Round up your pals and tuck into a feast of an evening with Lime Wood’s brand new series of Guest Chef Pop Ups at Hartnett Holder & Co. £95 per person. limewoodhotel.co.uk

21 PARTY TIME COMING SOON...

PHOTOGRAPHY: CHARLEY’S HEALTH

Sensory soother As the brand best known for its innovative Neckerchew, Cheeky Chompers will be unveiling its much-anticipated muslin collection this May. Babies can enjoy the comfort of organic cotton muslin in the iconic Neckerchew, the original chewy dribble bib and comforter. cheekychompers.com

Take a trip to Hamleys Regent Street, as Little London hosts a special event full of family fun! littlelondonmagazine.co.uk

27 FESTI-FUN

Over two days, families can jump on the world’s biggest bouncy castle, enjoy live music and even get their faces painted at Southampton’s Common People Festival. commonpeople.net

JUNE 5 YOGI BABY

The new Bibble & Bubble baby yoga classes launch today in Whiteley. To book, visit bibblebubble.com

15 WIN BIG

Today’s your last chance to enter our exclusive comps! babyhampshire. co.uk/competitions

17 TOWN ART

In and around Jane Austin’s hometown of Basingstoke will be 24 themed ‘Book Benches’ painted by local artists – join in the trail! sittingwithjane.com

18 FATHER’S DAY Be sure to show him just how much you love him.

21 STORY TIME

Fort Nelson’s free 20-minute drop-in sessions include an engaging story and stimulating play activities. Today, at 11am, listen to the tale of Daring Dogs. royalarmouries.org

28 WILD PLAY

Magnetic toy brand SmartMax launches the My First: Safari Animals. Cute, creative and clever!

Priced £17.99, amazon.co.uk

babyhampshire.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2017 | 17

at little london

Sunday 21 May

Join us for an exclusive morning of extraordinary adventure. Little London will be at Hamleys ro a to or an n or ettable ri ate arty

TO REGISTER FOR YOUR FREE TICKETS, PLEASE VISIT

littlelondonmagazine.co.uk/hamleys * DISCOUNT AVAILABLE FROM 12PM-1PM ON THE DAY. EXCLUDES CONCESSION BRANDS.

Get involved! #LittleLondonatHamleys

From a selection bonpoint.com Tobias And The Bear bib £8, ministylin.com

Wooden Story shape stacker £23.95, lullabuy.co.uk A Little Lovely Company light £7.74, en.smallable.com

EARTH ANGELS

Keep baby closer to nature with sustainable accessories and a neutral palette of brushed khaki and textured taupe This stylish rocker is suitable for newborns to babies up to seven months Charlie Crane ‘Levo’ rocker £168.95, lullabuy.co.uk

Cotton-blend appliqué dress £29, cosstores.com

Kalinka cotton romper £70, mabelchild.co.uk

Tod’s suede moccasins £98, childsplayclothing.co.uk

Mini Rodini cotton-blend sweater £42, scandimini.co.uk Cotton trousers £45, wildandgorgeous.co.uk Leather booties £48, donsje.com

Guum Barcelona plywood bassinet £279.95, theweedepartmentstore.com

Cotton yarn rug £69.90, kidsconcept.co.uk babyhampshire.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2017 | 19

SHOPPING Cashmere cardigan £99, mariechantal.co.uk

Cotton romper £29.99, questioneverythinglondon.com

Ferm Living lamp £63.95, lullabuy.co.uk

Leather booties £49, rachelriley.co.uk

From a selection at Cam Cam Copenhagen scandiborn.co.uk

Fleece-lined cotton throw £70, 64south.co.uk

WALKING ON AIR Light-as-a-feather cotton to the palest of pastels and cloud motifs; the sky’s the limit with this look

Hape wooden plane toy £5.50, johnlewis.com

Bloomingville cushion £43.50, madeindesign.co.uk

Kissy Kissy cotton bib £7, lucyandbelle.com

Merino wool cardigan £39, scarletribbonmerino.com

This chair’s high back and ergonomic design helps to promote proper posture when breastfeeding Microsuede nursing chair £875, olliella.com

Cotton-blend leggings £6.99, zara.com 20 | MAY/JUN 2017 | babyhampshire.co.uk

Cam Cam Copenhagen music mobile £25, scandiborn.co.uk

PROTECT YOUR BABY AGAINST LOUD NOISES

Nothing but the best for your little one Taking your baby to an event or festival? Making a lot of noise doing chores around the house? These trendy ALPINE MUFFY BABY earmuffs protect the vulnerable hearing of babies and toddlers against loud noises and overstimulation. Moreover, they are the only CE-certified baby earmuffs in Europe. Thanks to the soft, adjustable headband the earmuffs have a perfect fit. Wearing the earmuffs, your baby can sleep peacefully through the noise or enjoy the event. www.alpinehearingprotection.co.uk/Muffy-Baby

SHOPPING Kenzo cotton sweatshirt from £54, childrensalon.com

Masterkidz wooden fire station £49.95, naturalbabyshower.co.uk

Oogaa silicone spoon £6.99, littlegreenhome.co.uk

Leather booties £55, thelittleshoemaker.com From a selection at Petit Bateau alexandalexa.com

FIRE AWAY!

A sunset palette of red, yellow and orange is the perfect way to inject bold summer style into baby’s nursery Tripp Trapp wooden high chair £169, stokke.com

Plywood fire engine £49.99, kiddimoto.co.uk

Lab linen quilt £59, shak-shuka.com

Bakker Made With Love bodysuit £23.22, en.smallable.com

Plush comforter £25, steiff.com

Stay ahead of the curve with iCandy’s newest model iCandy Orange pushchair £790, icandyworld.com

Arsène Et Les Pipelettes linen and cotton trousers £40, rosesandthestars.com

Skitsch table lamp £146, madeindesign.co.uk

babyhampshire.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2017 | 23

SHOPPING

Djeco Enchanted Fishing magnetic toy £13.75, crafts4kids.co.uk

Even babygrows can’t escape the underwater trend – check o is s ee o d s rin Cotton-mix bodysuit £30, molo.com

From a selection bebebombom.com Cotton bodysuit £49, rachelriley.co.uk

Kissy Kissy cotton romper £26, childrensalon.com

WATER WORLD ro na ti al stri es to tro i al fis et yo r little one de ed o t in t ese arine ins ired st a es

Big Stuffed octopus soft toy £165, libertylondon.com

Cotton dress £21.99, zara.com Charlie Crane high chair £199.95, cuckooland.com

Organic cotton romper £28, piupia.co.uk

Flip XT² pushchair £529, mamasandpapas.com

Melamine bowl £8, shop.zsl.org 24 | MAY/JUN 2017 | babyhampshire.co.uk

Leather moccasins £20, bobux.co.uk

Baby Carrier One The ultimate ergonomic edition www.babybjorn.com The Parallel Line Design is a sign of a genuine BABYBJĂ–RN product.

STORYTIME with daddy...

Emma O’Donovan ROU N DS U P TH E BE ST R E ADS FOR PAPA AN D BABY

JUST LIKE DADDY

By Lucy Freegard

This tale is a joyful observation of the special relationship between parent and child – a perfect gift and a lovely reminder that children cherish the little moments as much as us adults do. £6.99, Pavilion

26 | MAY/JUN 2017 | babyhampshire.co.uk

BOOKS

What do you do when Grandad starts acting like a penguin? Little ones will love this touching tale

ABC OFF TO SEA

By Virginie Morgand ‘A is for Adventure’ in this stylish nautical-themed introduction to the alphabet. The bright drawings from the French illustrator are sure to inspire a love of learning. £9.95, Thames & Hudson

MY PICTURES AFTER THE STORM

By Eric Veillé

With animals, shapes and scenes to spot, this witty exploration of ‘before and after’ is filled with clever rhymes and funny images. £10.99, Gecko Press

imagination in this delightful new pre-school series of board books.

Familiar themes are explored with charm and humour. £6.99, Bloomsbury

IF I HAD A DINOSAUR

By Alex Barrow and Gabby Dawnay

Perfect for pre-school palaeontologists! This little girl has her sights set on a pet that is slightly larger and considerably scalier than the norm… A joy to share any time of day. £10.95, Thames & Hudson

BEDTIME WITH TED

LOOK, THERE’S A ROCKET!

What Ted lacks in stature he certainly makes up for with his

Peep through the cut-out holes and lead baby on an intergalactic

By Sophy Henn

By Esther Aarts

adventure into outer space.

Encounter aliens and help steer the spacecraft on its mission. £6.99, Nosy Crow

TRIANGLE

By Mac Barnett and Jon Klassen A brilliantly anarchic feud between a triangle and a square evolves using black and white illustrations and clever, simple text. A fantastically funny read. £12.99, Walker Books

WILLIAM BEE’S WONDERFUL WORLD OF TRUCKS

By William Bee

This visual feast will have little ones entranced for hours on end, with bright and bold characters to

seek out on each page. £12.99, Pavilion

THE LUMBERJACK’S BEARD

By Duncan Beedie

Chopping down trees means Big Jim Hickory needs to find a new home for his woodland friends.

Perhaps his beard would make the perfect temporary residence? £6.99, Templar Publishing

WHEN GRANDAD WAS A PENGUIN

By Morag Hood

Confusion ensues as a little girl realises her beloved Grandad has been replaced by a mischievous penguin. A heartwarming tale of the importance of grandparents. £11.99, Two Hoots

babyhampshire.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2017 | 27

Inigo & Ottilie Inigo and Ottilie wear printed cotton bodysuits, ÂŁ60 each, both Caramel.

TWO OF A KIND Meet some of our favourite double acts, as we celebrate the precious bond between twins in our at-home edit

PHOTOGR APHER : KEN COPSEY ST YLIST: BECK Y JOH N

Luna & Pearl Luna wears printed cotton dress with matching bloomers, £59, Rachel Riley.

Pearl wears printed cotton knit dress, £48, Pepa & Co. Hair bows, £10 (set of two), Rachel Riley.

Thomas & Theo Thomas wears cotton top, from £92, and linen shorts, from £82, both Bonpoint.

Theo wears cotton top, from £92, and cotton trousers, from £62, both Bonpoint.

Sienna & Hayden Sienna and Hayden wear cotton sweaters, £24 each, and chiffon tutus, £32 each, both Bob & Blossom.

Hair bows, £10 (set of two), Rachel Riley. Cotton muslin blanket, £58, Aden + Anais.

Rocco & Jenson Rocco wears organic cotton printed babygrow, £16, Frugi.

Jenson wears organic cotton bodysuit, £9, Frugi.

SPECIAL THANKS TO: MODEL AGENCIES: RAY & ROBIN, TINY ANGELS, BONNIE & BETTY

34 | MAY/JUN 2017 | babyhampshire.co.uk

INTERVIEW

earth mother FROM SE X SYM BOL TO DEVOTED MUM AN D ENTR EPR EN EU R , Jessica Alba TALKS ABOUT H ER BABIE S, H ER BUSIN E SS AN D H OW SH E MANAGE S TO STAY IN SU PER STAR SHAPE

babyhampshire.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2017 | 35

INTERVIEW

R

The Honest Company’s range includes a selection of eco-friendly nappies

36 | MAY/JUN 2017 | babyhampshire.co.uk

The actress is happy to attend charity events with her husband and two girls in tow

‘Dad smooches’: Jessica’s family regularly make an appearance on Instagram

as the California native lists the values at the heart of the company, but the biggest delight is the legacy she is creating for her children.

“My kids are proud of what their mother does and I’m proud to have a company that promotes the wellbeing of families and creating a healthy home environment for children everywhere,” she smiles.

While she thinks it’s ‘cool’ that her daughters get to see their mother wearing ‘many different hats’, there are downsides.

And despite her habit of playing superheroes on screen, Alba – like all of us mere mortals – only has a finite number of hours in every day. “They don’t like it if I miss too many of their school events,” she says. “I was the only mother at school who missed one Halloween party and Honor still reminds me about that!”

Although in the last few years she has scaled back her Hollywood career, only appearing in a handful of films, when the opportunity arises to get back into finest kung fu form – like for last year’s Mechanic: Resurrection opposite Jason Statham – Alba literally leaps at the chance. “I had so much fun making that movie,” she says with an enormous (and perfect) grin. “I had to train very hard and get into top shape to be ready to handle all the stunt work that was involved. I also got to do my share of butt-kicking – I’m not just the damsel in distress.”

Judging by her perfectly toned physique, Alba takes her fitness very seriously and can still kick it with the biggest action stars in the business. But while she insists she will never turn her back on Hollywood entirely, you shouldn’t expect to find her regularly on the

celebrity circuit or falling out of a club – her priority is, and always will be, her family.

“I love everything about being a parent. I didn’t even know it was possible to have this much love and joy and happiness in my life. It’s overflowing, unconditional and selfless.

I never experienced that type of thing before I had kids,” she says brightly. “It is a profound experience and I feel like I’ve finally come into my own and become the person I always should have been. I feel more grounded, free and comfortable in my own skin than I ever have before.”

For some mothers, having children can cause greater anxiety as they fret over their brood, but for Alba it has been a process of loosening up and letting go.

“Before I had kids, I was very responsible and serious,” she confesses, lowering her voice. “I used to be all about controlling my environment; everything had to be just so.

Now my idea of perfection is different. You can label bins and have a place for stuff, but when the kids go into the playroom you’re not going to say, ‘We can’t paint because how are we going to clean it up?’”

The big question though, is how does a woman with so much on her slender shoulders find time to relax? “You know, spending time with my kids kind of does take all the stress away, weirdly,” she says. “I’m in the moment with them. They make me so happy; they’re pure joy. I know they’re not going to be little forever, so I really soak up as much as I can with them. That’s kind of how I de-stress.” bh With her husband of nine years, Cash Warren

WORDS: KAREN ANNE OVERTON. PHOTOGRAPHY: GETTY IMAGES/STEFANIE KEENAN; INSTAGRAM/JESSICAALBA; INSTAGRAM/THEHONESTCOMPANY, ADMEDIA, INC/SIPA USA/PA IMAGES

egularly voted as one of the ‘hottest’ actresses on the planet, Jessica Alba quickly became a household name after a career-breaking turn in James Cameron’s Dark Angel. What followed were starring roles in blockbusters Sin City, Fantastic Four, Into the Blue and Machete, a whirlwind of glamorous award shows and parties, and countless magazine shoots. But following the birth of her daughters – Honor, eight, and Haven, five – with husband Cash Warren, Alba reveals that acting no longer felt like enough. Realising how many toxic baby and household products were on the market, she decided to develop her own range. Launched in 2012, The Honest Company – which produces and distributes non-toxic household goods, baby products and an organic beauty line – is now worth over a billion dollars, an outcome Alba certainly hadn’t seen coming.

“I found my direction in life – to promote and encourage a healthy lifestyle in others because it’s so important to me and if I can help provide healthier, alternative products out there, making them accessible, it means so much to me to be able to do that,” says the 35-year-old. “And I think it’s successful because it’s from the heart, and the fact that it’s doing well just makes me happy!”

Balancing life as a CEO and mother, and a ‘side-job’ as a film star, is not easy, with an average day requiring planning, dedication and lots of colouring books. “I’ll get up at 5:15am for a hot yoga or spinning class, then make breakfast for the family, and depending on the day, take Honor and Haven to school,” explains Alba. “My kids often spend time with me at the office where they’ll bring books to read or things to colour. They also love running around the office, but fortunately I have lots of babysitters to watch over them!”

The joy and fulfilment that comes from running such an impactful enterprise is evident

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1

Make sure to cover baby up when outside in the sun

2

PARTY TIME

GIFT IDEAS

BABY PARTIES

Sweet present ideas especially for baby

with Carole Middleton

Oli & Carol teether £6, shop.lilbeans.co.uk

In the garden Ensure your summer celebration is one to remember with these outdoor entertaining ideas

Cotton blanket £23.50, pigeonorganics.com

H

3

4

5

osting a party for friends and their toddlers can be more than a little chaotic, so holding a gathering outside is the perfect opportunity to let them make the most of the open space and allow you to enjoy the glorious weather and longer days.

Wooden rainbow stacking toy £52, mamaowl.net

Why not give your party a ‘glamping’ twist, with floor cushions and picnic blankets? Pile them up underneath a gazebo, teepee or canopy to provide plenty of shade for baby.

Having a food and drink station where everyone can help themselves will save you from running around. Serve up iced tea or pink lemonade in kegs or large jugs, and don’t forget those colourful straws to give your beverages a lift! You could display these, and your cutlery, in terracotta plant pots.

Liberty print party hats (pack of eight) £9.99, partypieces.co.uk

Eef Lillemor bamboo tableware from £5, the-pippa-and-ike-show.com 1. Chloé cotton chambray hat £35, childrensalon.com 2. Organic cotton dress £26, welovefrugi.com 3. Organic cotton romper £24, littlegreenradicals.co.uk 4. Cotton short dungarees £35, whatmothermade.co.uk 5. Organic cotton reversible t-shirt £21, sense-organics.com

When it comes to decorating your space, be inspired by the colours in your garden and try to echo those shades. Candle lanterns will take you from afternoon to evening, while fairylights in the trees look utterly charming.

Be sure to keep your little ones occupied with games and toys. Traditional wooden toys, such as skittles, will be a hit with guests of all ages.

Liberty print paper party bags (pack of 10) £6.99, partypieces.co.uk

Leather moccasins £38, amyandivor.com Kilner drinks dispenser £16.99, partypieces.co.uk

Paper plates (pack of 12) babylondon.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2017 | 39 £3.99, partypieces.co.uk

10% OFF & FREE DELIVERY Quote BHA71

Winchester Store 75 St George’s Street, SO23 8AH www.jojomamanbebe.co.uk Offer can be used in store and online. Offer expires 31.7.2017.

See website for offer details and store addresses.

REVIEW

TOTGEAR

James Dobson, HIS WIFE CAROLIN E AN D BABY BERTIE TE ST DRIVE TH E U PPABABY CRUZ UPPABABY CRUZ American brand Uppababy, best known for its Cruz and Vista pushchairs, has really struck a chord with the UK market over the last few years. The Cruz, having been listed as one of TFL’s top five public-transport friendly buggies, is light, narrow and compact, making it a particularly great option for town dwellers.

The pushchair has already clocked up a few miles along the river

THE LOWDOWN For me, choosing a pushchair felt like a massive dad milestone, and made impending fatherhood seem very real indeed. Selecting which set of wheels I was going to proudly push my newborn in was one of the few things on the to-do list that I was genuinely excited about, and which I didn’t try to delegate to my wife, Caroline. My research began by nosing around John Lewis, kicking tyres and testing the handling of several models. I hadn’t heard of Uppababy until a friend was showing off her Vista model – she told me the Cruz would be a good option for us knowing its compact size would be handy for navigating front doors and travelling. We duly followed her advice…

into the outside world, and took Bertie for a spin along the river. He looked comfortable cosied up in his carrycot, and Caroline and I were happy as Larry as we took turns pushing this swish set of wheels. The Cruz has already clocked up a fair few miles!

GOOD LOOKING?

PRACTICALITY & DRIVABILITY

Even before Bertie arrived, with the carrycot locked in place, our Uppababy looked fantastic in ‘Jake Black’, parked up by the front door ready for action. But it looks even better filled with our baby. A few days after returning home from hospital, we decided to venture

Having fumbled my way through building the cot and baby changer, putting the Uppababy together was a simple delight and the practical aspects have continued. Being the big lad that Bertie is, he was upgraded to the toddler seat after four months of blissful strolls in the carrycot. Bertie loves the seat, as it allows him to keep a lookout on what’s going on around him. One of the best features of the Uppababy is the adjustable canopy which has proven to be very handy in keeping the sun out of his eyes. The other highlight is its ability to turn on a sixpence – great for city life and a fun distraction for Bertie. The Cruz is very straightforward to collapse and assemble, and because it is smaller than a lot of buggies, it’s also reasonably lightweight to pick up and carry around.

e r is de ni e a oo er es e ia i a er ie inside

THE VERDICT Having been a competitive dad for six months now and forensically inspected every buggy that has crossed my path during that time, I can’t believe I hadn’t known about Uppababy before – it seems like 90% of parents in the South East own one of its designs! This is certainly no bad thing and, if anything, offered great reassurance during those early months of finding one’s feet in the parenting world.

We are thrilled that we chose the Uppababy Cruz and in its own way it has become a firm part of our new life as a trio. bh From £529.99; carrycot, £219.99, uppababy.co.uk

babyhampshire.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2017 | 41

New and improved We round up the latest gear for summer strolling

MOUNTAIN BUGGY DUET Not only has Mountain Buggy added improved features to its much-loved Duet double buggy, the design is now available as a single with the ‘Joey’ clip-on tote. £599, mountainbuggy.com

NUNA SUITED COLLECTION Spring sees the launch of Nuna’s Suited range, which offers premium fabrics and leather-look details for a more luxury feel. Our pick is the swanky Leaf Curv rocker. £200, nuna.eu

ERGOBABY FESTIVAL CARRIER This limited edition print, in partnership with Sophie La Girafe, is available in both the 360° and Adapt carriers, with a custom strap to keep Sophie close by. From £119.90, ergobaby.co.uk

ICOO ACROBAT XL PLUS TRIO SET This new travel system features built-in LED lights – great for late-night strolls when baby won’t settle. Have them flashing selectively or permanently lit. £749.99, icoo.de/en

42 | MAY/JUN 2017 | babyhampshire.co.uk

BUGABOO BEE 5 Say hello to the new and improved Bugaboo Bee 5! We’re big fans of the smoother suspension, as well as the practical, easily removable seat covers. £549, bugaboo.com

LITTLELIFE BUGGY CUP HOLDER With longer days, we find ourselves venturing further afield, so keep your drink to hand with LittleLife’s new Buggy Cup Holder, which fits most pushchair handles. £8.99, littlelife.com

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FAMILY

DIVIDE and CONQUER hared Parental Leave (SPL) became law in the UK in April 2015. The idea behind it, based upon similar schemes in Scandinavia, is to enable parents to share the workload of childcare. Instead of working mums being allocated 52 weeks, and dads getting only a fortnight of official, paid leave, now both parents can pool their parental leave and split it more evenly.

“I took two weeks’ paternity leave when our son Louis was born in July 2015. I went back to work for six weeks before taking 30 weeks’ SPL from September to April,” says Mark Smith, from Richmond, Surrey. “For my wife Emma and I, it felt right that we were able to decide between us how we wanted to share the first year of childcare. I was lucky also, as within one month of SPL becoming law, my firm implemented an enhanced SPL programme.

“Emma has run her own business for the past 10 years and it was important that she wasn’t on leave for too long,” adds Mark. “As one of the first people to take SPL, I got a mix of reactions. I think most respect the choice, but it will definitely take a societal shift.”

For Geraint Davies, a military policeman at RAF Northolt in Ruislip, the introduction of SPL came as perfect timing. “I’d heard of SPL, but wasn’t sure I could take it while serving in the military. We investigated it and decided I would take four months off work to look after my son, Evan, due to my wife being promoted and needing to return to work before the year was up. She had always been supportive of me in my career, it was time to return the favour.

“I spoke to my employers who were supportive, and was one of the first members of the military to take SPL. It was a learning curve for everyone, but the military police points out that it is committed to allowing service families the opportunity to adapt to changing dynamics. Despite the Forces having

S

44 | MAY/JUN 2017 | babyhampshire.co.uk

, Emma h wife it w k r Ma

n and so

, Louis

Geraint wit h his son E van

a reputation of being a macho organisation, everyone showed admiration for what I was doing. There was no stigma attached.”

Geraint says the experience is one he feels he’s benefitted from. “Due to my son’s sleeping habits, I only saw him briefly in the evenings after work. But with SPL we got time to bond,” he explains. “It also brought me and my wife closer; I saw things from her perspective and, similarly, it showed her life from my perspective. It made us more rounded parents.”

The change from full-time work to fulltime fatherhood can come as a shock to the system though, as William Bartholomew from Hertfordshire, who works at a city finance

firm, discovered. “I took six months SPL from July 2015 to January 2016 to look after our son, Barnaby. I wanted to share in the challenges and fun times that come with having a baby.

“SPL gave us memories we will never forget – but it wasn’t without its difficulties and the sudden change of pace from my day job to full-time parenthood was a challenge.

“I was taking time off immediately after the birth, so the uncertainty which comes with starting a long period of leave without a fixed start date made the last weeks of work tricky.

Thankfully, Barnaby arrived on his due date!”

All three fathers insist the overall experience is one that they would relish retaking – both Geraint and Mark have become fathers again and are in the process of arranging further SPL. “This time it will be through choice rather than necessity,” says Geraint. “The only pitfall I ever found was that some mothers themselves weren’t ready for the changes! I had a lot of support from some mothers in groups I attended, but others would make comments like, ‘I bet the wife will have to do all the cleaning when she gets home’, or ‘You’ll have to learn to change a nappy now’ – things I obviously already did and took pride in.”

William also counts the blessings that taking SPL brought him. “Taking our first family holiday was amazing. Everyone was supportive, and a common reaction was, ‘I wish this was around when I had my children’.”

Mark is certainly glad it’s around for him and his children: “Once you find your feet, the fun is immeasurable. As I developed the confidence to spend more time out of the house with Louis, it became easier. Being the primary carer is challenging, tiring, and at times overwhelming. But I loved the fact that Louis sees me as an ‘equal’ parent, so when he is down or wants a cuddle, he comes to me just as much as he does to Emma.” bh

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

AS A GROWING N UM BER OF DADS TAKE U P TH E OPPORTU NIT Y TO SPEN D MOR E TIM E AT H OM E WITH TH EIR BABY, Rob Kemp M EE TS TH R EE FATH ER S WH O’ VE DON E JUST THAT

FAMILY

TIPS FOR FATHERS • “Know your rights,” suggests Mark.

“SPL is still in its infancy and both the government and employers are finding their feet, so it’s often not advocated as much as it could be.”

• “If your company doesn’t have a SPL programme in place, see what you can do through your HR to get one in place – in effect, just extending the maternity policy.”

• “Build a network of other dads in the area who are the primary carer. I found this important, as many of the existing family activities are targeted (sometimes exclusively) at women.”

babyhampshire.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2017 | 45

FAMILY

Reunited with Martine McCutcheon and Hugh Grant for this year’s Love Actually sequel

Celebrating 25 years of Comic Relief in 2013

What I wish I d no n t e first ti e aro nd NOW A FATH ER OF FOU R , WRITER AN D DIR EC TOR Richard Cur tis SHAR E S TH E PE AR L S OF WISDOM H E WISH E S H E HAD KNOWN BEFOR E TH E AR RIVAL OF HIS FIR ST CHILD

46 | MAY/JUN 2017 | babyhampshire.co.uk

FAMILY

t’s now been quite a long time since we had a baby in the house – the first one was born in 1995 and the last one in 2003 and I’m clearly about to become an unreliable witness. So very quickly, before I forget everything except living with football boots, the sound of Nu-metal from behind locked doors, mobile phones hidden under pillows at 2am and other teenagerabilia, here is a little advice I can give about firsttime fatherhood. If you’re already knee-deep in parenthood, read no further – this is entry-level stuff. But with luck there may be something slightly useful here if you’re going to be a first time father this year, and you’re feeling under-briefed or terrified.

I

AS YOU PREPARE Try to think about what happens after the birth. I spent an enormous amount of time in classes talking about waters breaking and deep breathing and contractions – and much less time talking about breastfeeding and changing nappies. The birth only lasts for a matter of hours – the aftermath goes on a lifetime. It’s like war: the invasion is very quick but the occupation, that lasts forever.

PHOTOGRAPHY: GETTY IMAGES EUGENE GOLOGURSKY/STRINGER

BREASTFEEDING Now really pay attention to that stuff – it’s the main source of life, and sometimes grief, for the first few months. I remember my partner Emma being plunged into despair twice by the difficulties of something she’d assumed would be a doddle. If everything is going wrong, there are breastfeeding counsellors who can come to your house for an hour (and a fee) and make everything work again.

We were rescued by Clare Byam-Cook, who arrived, assessed and repositioned the whole caboodle. If you can’t find Clare, find her book… it’s also excellent.

why there’s all the shouting. Armageddon in 30 seconds. So having one – and if possible two – changing stations, which have all the equipment, means the moment there’s a nappy to be changed, you’ve got somewhere safe to go.

ON THAT CHANGING TABLE Make sure you’ve got lots of wet wipes. The cotton-wool and lukewarm water thing is something everyone does with their first child, but no one ever bothers about with their second. Wet wipes are a perfect modern invention and do the job like nothing else.

PATERNITY LEAVE NAMES Don’t give your child your second favourite name as their second name, because you

This is the most important one of all. Everyone is entitled to two weeks off – but only 40% of men take it. And that has a bad knock-

IT’S THE TEXTURE OF LIFE WITH A BABY THAT MATTERS; ITS JOYS AND ITS BOREDOMS might need it later. I wanted to call our son Daniel – Emma wanted Jake. We called him Jake Daniel. But then we had another son and Daniel was already gone. I never got the Dan of my dreams.

THE 40-MINUTE RULE No matter how wonderful or important or close any visitor is – in the days after the birth no mother wants someone to talk to them for longer that 40 minutes. I’m talking best friends, I’m talking grandmothers, I’m talking Harry

CHANGING TABLES Most trauma post-birth happens on or around nappy changing. It’s a messy business – it needs equipment. And it’s a vicious circle.

When you’ve rushed to change a nasty nappy and you’re missing something to do so, you start to call for help just when the baby is screaming so loudly your partner can’t hear your cries, and then they start shouting, asking

Styles and Beyoncé on a surprise joint visit – 40 minutes max for all of them. When you’ve had a baby, that’s all that matters in your world, and all you want to matter. People from the outside can remind you there’s a world elsewhere which bores or confuses you, or makes you feel that you’ll never return to the world of parties, friends and normal humans eating pizza and watching The Crown. So, give your visitors time to talk about the baby and the birth and then the moment they say, “Oh, I went to a brilliant movie last night” throw the baggages out.

ildren, ith their ch d Emma w an ett rl rd ca ha S ic d R , Charlie an Jake, Spike

on effect for everyone. Do everything you can to be as free as you can for at least two weeks after the baby is born. There are lots of reasons: because it’s great, because you’re needed, but most of all, because that’s the time you learn what a child is. The thing about babies – and children – is that they’re interesting in all their details, in all their activity and non-activity. But if you think, “I’ll just be there for the important bits,” you’ll find it hard to build up the right emotional muscles, and risk missing the message entirely.

It’s the texture of life with a baby that matters; it’s every little meaningless moment, its joys and its boredoms, and the continuing feeling of shared responsibility. Also, if the father isn’t there in those first weeks, there’s a danger it sets up a pattern of non-attendance, and “it’s really the mother’s job” for the whole of life.

So even if your work is hugely important – your other, new job is even more important.

Paternity leave is the crucial training for a job that lasts a lifetime. Good luck, guys. It’s going to be so groovy… bh

babyhampshire.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2017 | 47

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Goat milk formula is not suitable for infants with a cow’s milk protein allergy unless directed by a suitably qualified healthcare professional.

BABY TALK

PART

Diary of a MUM AS BABY ROBIN BEGIN S SLEEPING TH ROUGH , Mar tha Alexander IS ON A MISSION TO DITCH TH E BAGGY SHIRTS

I

’m ready to exercise again. I don’t really want to.

I feel like a car that’s failed its MOT. I’m knackered.

I know I have to try; to just put one foot in front of the other and run. Or do a sun salutation or two.

Or join my husband in his 6am HIIT sessions in the sitting room, which sounds like a herd of baby elephants doing the Gay Gordons. But I just can’t be arsed. I really can’t.

I wish all of those Instagram witches with washboard stomachs 3.5 seconds after giving birth would stop posting pictures of their waistlines: in order to satisfy their own egos they make so many other women feel like human flotsam – then have the cheek to say they are trying to inspire others. Yeah. Inspire others to lie down in the road and await oncoming traffic. I probably should be reaching out or leaning in or whatever, but I’d settle for just standing up.

I shouldn’t complain: I’ve had a lovely time posting beige carbs into my face all day, every day for six months, but all good things must come to an end. Firstly, I have to stop shopping as if I’m a nine-year-old whose mother has allowed her to have complete autonomy in Sainsbury’s (Party Rings, Frosties, Nutella). I don’t want Robin to grow up in the town’s answer to Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory. Also, I no longer want to wear shirts so huge they resemble those covers people use to protect their cars.

But seriously, when am I meant to be exercising? Any time I’m not changing nappies or singing Old MacDonald, I want to have a bath or sleep or look at pictures of people I don’t know on the internet. Not plod around the park like Jabba the Hutt, wheezing. Not going to yoga, where I am always the person the instructor needs to manipulate back into downward dog. I hate the plank.

I could not possibly do a class that requires any type of jumping because, to be totally frank, I was lazy when it came to my pelvic floor exercises.

My first run was not a success. Two women in headto-toe Lululemon bounded past like nubile springboks while I lumbered along like a dray horse. But I’ve done it. This moment has, unfortunately, also come at exactly the same time as my being ready to go on a night out

again. To be honest, a bottle of Picpoul and a voluble gossip is far more on brand for me than deep squats.

I can do this because Robin is sleeping through and has been for some time now (I know mothers aren’t meant to gloat about this but allow me a smidgen of smugness). How did that happen? Well, I lost the plot when one day Robin didn’t shut her eyes all day long – literally 10 hours – and hired Heidi Skudder, aka The Parent and Baby Coach, to come to the house and help Robin settle herself to sleep. There were a few tears and a lot of hand-wringing from me, but now she sleeps for 12 hours each night and is a clockwork baby. And we’re all so much happier. I’m back in the driver’s seat.

I met my best friend Mary for cocktails. It was the first time we’d had a drink together in 18 months – practically the moment she gave birth to my goddaughter Mika, I became pregnant with hers.

There was no monitor, no steriliser, no pieces of singing plastic driving me insane. Gin and tonics, flutes of champagne, espresso martinis – by 9pm I was roaring about childbirth to a table of terrified male strangers.

Tequila, salt, lime – by midnight I had taken off my boots and was undulating like Baloo to How Will I Know by Whitney Houston, having repeatedly asked a group of embarrassed teenagers if I was a MILF. The good news is, I wasn’t sick on the street, I didn’t cry and no one had to ring my husband for assistance.

Sure, I fell asleep face down on the sofa having not brushed my teeth, sweating inside pleather trousers. I woke up nose to nose with my cat and cursed with a boil-washed hangover. I was going to pay for my fun.

My husband took Robin out for the day (“Mummy has had a party time, party time, party time” he sang to the tune of Here We Go Round The Mulberry Bush, as I shuddered in my dressing gown) not because I didn’t want to see her, but because I didn’t want her to see me like this (if you have had one too many and feel guilty, do not Google ‘mums who party’ as it will make you want to bury yourself alive in the back garden).

I do need to pull myself together. Less Picpoul, more push-ups. Right, then. bh

Getting back into exercise post birth?

You’ll need one of these…

Yoga nursing bra £29.90, cakematernity.com

Next time – Martha shares all about the mess of weaning

babyhampshire.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2017 | 49

PREGNANCY

LABOUR of LOVE Louisa van den Bergh OF LU LU BABY GUIDE S YOU TH ROUGH TH E U N PR EDIC TABILIT Y OF GIVING BIRTH

50 | MAY/JUN 2017 | babyhampshire.co.uk

PREGNANCY

ven though it’s a huge topic, and undoubtedly the big moment you are counting down for, I tend to put off writing about labour and the reason is that my gorgeous boys didn’t come out that way.

They were born by caesarean section. I often ask myself: am I qualified to write about this subject – what do I know about labour? I have never been through it myself; I haven’t even had a single contraction, for goodness sake!

But do you have to have experienced labour to be able to write about it?

Arguably no. The reason I say this, and perhaps rather controversially, is that from my work and hearing thousands of birth stories from friends, family and the ladies who have been through our antenatal courses, I can honestly conclude that no two experiences of birth are the same and that is the only thing I can write with real certainty.

So what other generalisations can I tentatively make about labour?

E

the third stage is a hotly debated topic, but research indicates you are at a higher risk of haemorrhage if you opt for the natural route.

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE? ‘How long is a piece of string?’ is very relevant when it comes to labour. One of my closest friends had a 55-hour labour, including the latent phase. Others I know have delivered their babies at home on the bathroom floor as they didn’t even have time to get in the car (and yes, these were their first babies, too).

Time can depend on a myriad of factors including your baby’s position, whether or not you have been induced, where you are, how you feel, the care you are receiving and so on.

Research has shown that active labour is eight hours on average for first-time mums, and five hours for subsequent labours, so, generally, second and subsequent labours are almost always shorter and easier than the first.

WHAT WILL IT FEEL LIKE?

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK. VISIT LULUBABY.CO.UK

THE STAGES Most labours are broken into three stages.

The first is what is usually understood to be labour: experiencing contractions which build in intensity and narrow in interval until your cervix is dilated to 10cm and you are ready to push your baby out. This first stage can be further divided into the latent and active phases. The latent phase is usually longer than the active and is when your cervix is dilated to 3cm or 4cm. From then until 10cm – or fully dilated – is the active phase. Some don’t even realise they are in the latent stage of labour, while others endure hours of painful contractions only to be told they are ‘just 1cm’.

Many also experience a phase called ‘transition’ in between the first and second phases. Contractions keep coming and mums can feel shivery and anxious, even angry and aggressive. “I’d had enough and began swearing at everyone around me,” reported one mum.

Our midwife, Victoria Cochrane, says she often has to turn away and smile at this stage, for the symptoms of transition are common and are simply a signal that mum is nearly ready to push.

The second stage of labour is the pushing stage and is when your baby is actually born – hurrah! The third is the delivery of the placenta which can be helped along with an injection of synthetic oxytocin – the hormone which makes your womb contract. Or you can choose to wait for nature to take its course – this may be hastened by breastfeeding, as that also releases oxytocin. Active versus physiological (or natural) management of

I asked some mums this question and this is what they told me: “Really intense period pains, like you have never experienced before”, “Hours of contractions with absolutely no pain. All I could feel was pressure”, “Like a hot poker in my lower back, agony”, “I felt the contractions but it wasn’t painful”, “The epidural couldn’t come quick enough!” Such a varied response to a simple question but obviously the most subjective one in the

fluid and is intended to also play a role in temperature regulation and skin protection after birth, but nowadays it is often removed immediately.

Sweat. Most women choose to give birth in a hospital – commonly very warm places. Combine this with the hard work of contracting and pushing out a baby, and things can get very sweaty. Also while we are on the subject of bodily functions, let’s briefly mention that you may do a poo in the heat of the action. Midwives are very used to this and deal with it discreetly; but it’s worth noting that your dignity is something that is usually left at the door when you have your baby. For my first emergency caesarean, I remember lying naked on the operating table while a dozen medical staff buzzed around me. I didn’t mind in the slightest, all that mattered was my son’s safe arrival.

Tears. I think it is fair to say that labour is emotional, no matter what kind you have.

From that first realisation that labour has begun, to the moment you hold your baby in your arms, it is hard to find a more intense and emotional experience.

TO PLAN OR NOT TO PLAN? While I firmly believe that it is helpful for mums to understand what may happen, I also feel that planning too much for your baby’s birth can be setting yourself up for a fall.

Labour is unpredictable and you can’t always

PLANNING TOO MUCH CAN BE SETTING YOURSELF UP FOR A FALL – LABOUR IS UNPREDICTABLE world. Many of the positive testimonials have often been down to hypnobirthing – simple but specific self-hypnosis, relaxation and breathing techniques – something to consider if you are particularly fearful of labour.

BLOOD, SWEAT AND TEARS (AND OTHER THINGS) If you are having a baby, be prepared for blood. And lots of it. This isn’t something that people dwell on but it is worth being prepared for. It doesn’t stop once you have had your baby either – then there is the placenta to deliver and the lochia (bleeding) afterwards for up to six weeks. Once out, baby may be bloody and covered in vernix caseosa, a waxy white substance delightfully translated from the Latin for ‘cheesy varnish’, which protects baby’s skin in the womb from the amniotic

plan for these things, and as our midwives endeavour to remind mums, there are two of you in it together – you and the baby – it’s not just in your hands. In our classes, we encourage our mums to be informed, open-minded and to consider making a list of birth ‘hopes’. That way, if these hopes fail to materialise, mothers will not be too disappointed.

So, a ‘typical labour’ is impossible to pin down: no two descriptions are ever identical, but there are common elements.

Our obstetrician Dr Penny Law sums it up perfectly: “Even for women who have previously had a baby, no two births are the same. This is why I believe it is important to be as informed as possible in advance and to understand that anything can happen, because that will help you to cope with the unpredictability of giving birth.” bh

babyhampshire.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2017 | 51

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HEALTH

The Breastfeeding Café with SIONED HILTON

THIS ISSUE WE ANSWER

YOUR COMMON BREASTFEEDING QUESTIONS How do I know my baby has the right latch?

The early days are vital to get breastfeeding established and milk production initiated. First of all, find a position that you are comfortable sitting in. The principles of nursing for any baby is a good latch – chin to breast, nipple to nose, nipple falls deep into the mouth, the lower lip curls out under the nipple and the upper lip thins and curls up a little. The suck will feel a little tender for the first few days on the nipple, listen and watch for a burst of sucks and the swallowing of milk. Also look at what is going on in your baby’s nappies, as this indicates the volume of milk going through their system, too.

Is there a reason one breast may produce more milk than the other?

Mums often find that one breast can produce more milk than the other and if you’re expressing, this becomes more apparent. There are several reasons why this might happen. For example, in the early weeks after birth when your breasts’ cells are primed for feeding, this is when storage capacity is determined, and is dependent on feeding patterns at the time.

As long as your little one is content, steadily

growing and you’re meeting their needs, there is nothing to worry about.

How long should I wait after baby is born to start expressing?

I would advise you take some time to get breastfeeding established before expressing.

The early weeks with baby help you to initiate feeding, build your supply and get lots of practice. However, if you’re experiencing difficulties, your midwife may suggest you begin expressing to help initiate your supply.

What’s the best way to deal with biting during breastfeeds?

This is a tough one, as your baby is exploring how to move her tongue. Make sure the latch is deep – when she is sucking her tongue should come over her lower gum. It is usual to have a nip as they slip off the breast or get frustrated as the milk flow slows. Watch your baby and see when she does nip; anticipate this and take her off before she bites. Try to minimise your reaction as baby may interpret the shock as being pushed away, and the bite will stop your milk flow because the reflex will react to the pain. bh

On esday May oin in Medela s i reast eedin a to tal all t in s breast eedin and ot er ood i n to re ei e yo r a and ost yo r ery o n a at o e ail edela s ail o

GET TALKING Breastfeeding has been proven time and time again to be the best way to feed baby. However, it’s not always as easy. Here are my tips for preparing yourself…

Having a supportive, reassuring and caring network of friends and family around you is vital, if not essential. Try to find a local breastfeeding group with peer supporters.

Chatting with other breastfeeding mothers is a brilliant way to get advice and learn some new tips from those who have experienced breastfeeding and expressing first hand. In fact, in a survey by breastfeeding brand Medela, it was found that 76% of mums believed attending a breastfeeding group help to support them.

Know what to expect and have realistic expectations; you and your baby are both new to this and it will take time to get the hang of it.

Believe in yourself! The human body is amazing, so believing in your ability to grow a baby, give birth and feed your baby is key.

babyhampshire.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2017 | 53

HEALTH

meet

the

EXPERTS OU R H E ALTHCAR E PROFE SSIONAL S AN SWER YOU R QU E STION S ABOUT PR EGNANC Y AN D BEYON D

MY TODDLER GETS VERY DISTRACTED AT MEALTIMES, IGNORES HIS FOOD OR THROWS IT ON THE FLOOR. HOW CAN I ENCOURAGE HIM TO BE MORE INTERESTED IN THE FOOD HE’S EATING AND MORE WILLING TO TRY A VARIETY OF FOODS? Toddlers get bored easily. Refusing to try new foods and wanting to get down from the table is entirely normal. But giving young children some freedom and letting them get hands-on with their food is a great way to make mealtimes fun, and encourage them to try new flavours. An easy way to do this is to serve additional ingredients – such as carrots, cucumber, peppers, tomatoes, peas and grated cheese – in little bowls on the side, so they can choose which new tastes they want to try.

Another good option is to let them ‘decorate’ a bowl of porridge or natural yogurt. Give them small bowls of chopped fresh fruit – mango, raspberries, banana and blueberries – and seeds – like pumpkin, poppy and flax – and let them get creative. While they’re busy having fun they will most likely try the new flavours.

Soup is a delicious and nutritious light meal or snack option for toddlers, and a great way to bridge the gap between puréed food and more substantial meals – if time isn’t on your side, try Little Dish’s range of soups. Little ones will love dipping in toast soldiers, floating corn-cracker ‘boats’ across the soup, sprinkling on seed ‘showers’ and dropping in cheese ‘rocks’ for a calcium boost, or having a go at stirring the soup themselves.

Above all, keep the atmosphere at mealtimes relaxed and fun. Remember that food refusal and fussy eating are totally normal and they will get the hang of it.

Lucy Jones, nutritionist for Little Dish

54 | MAY/JUN 2017 | babyhampshire.co.uk

I’VE JUST GONE ON MATERNITY LEAVE AND HAVE BEEN THINKING ABOUT WHAT I SHOULD BE EATING WHILE BREASTFEEDING. WHAT DO I NEED TO CONSIDER? Breastfeeding is an incredible experience but one that can also be incredibly taxing, both physically and emotionally. The direct link between what a mother eats and what her child consumes means that, more than ever before, nutrition is of the utmost importance.

When breastfeeding, energy levels can definitely be strained and mothers often find themselves exhausted; it is important not to eat foods that allow for sugar highs and lows.

Keeping yourself well-fed and energised over the course of the day is key; so don’t ever think there is anything wrong with carrying around snacks for yourself, as well as baby!

The goal when you are breastfeeding is to never deplete yourself of your body’s nutrients. Another thing to consider is that by keeping a varied diet while breastfeeding, you are able to change the taste and smell of your milk, which will allow your child to be exposed to a variety of flavours. This expansion of your child’s flavour palate will allow their culinary horizons to be expanded even before he or she starts with solids, and even minimises the potential for pickiness.

Lauren Dangoor, founder of Feed Me 2 For Lauren’s full nutritional breastfeeding guide, visit babyhampshire.co.uk

I WILL BE FIVE MONTHS PREGNANT WHEN WE’RE ON HOLIDAY. WHAT IS THE ZIKA VIRUS AND DO I NEED TO BE CONCERNED? The Zika virus has been demonstrated to be responsible for brain malformations in babies.

Studies in Brazil, published in The New England Journal of Medicine, showed clear evidence of this: 42% of babies born to mothers who were infected with Zika during pregnancy had brain malformations. The World Health Organisation has published guidelines for people travelling to countries where transmission via mosquitos is possible. However, transmission is also possible via sexual contact, just like other STIs. To minimise your risk, avoid travelling to countries where Zika is endemic – there is a list on the WHO website. Sexual partners of pregnant women living or returning from these areas should practice safe sex with condoms, or abstain from sexual activity throughout the pregnancy. Infection may be suspected based on symptoms and recent travel history: symptoms are usually red eyes, muscle pain, fever and headaches. A diagnosis can only be confirmed through lab tests on blood or other body fluids, such as urine, saliva or semen.

Dr Katharina Schramm MD, consultant gynaecologist at Richmond Practice

HEALTH

MANY OF MY PREGNANT FRIENDS ARE TAKING THE HARMONY TEST, WHAT IS IT AND IS IT SOMETHING I SHOULD CONSIDER? I’M 12 WEEKS PREGNANT WITH NO UNDERLYING MEDICAL CONDITIONS.

WE’VE JUST MOVED HOUSE AND ARE DECORATING OUR ONE-YEAR-OLD DAUGHTER’S NURSERY. HOW CAN WE MAKE HER NEW ENVIRONMENT AS SAFE AS POSSIBLE?

The Harmony Test is a non-invasive test that measures fetal cells present in the mother’s blood to produce a 99% accurate indication of Down’s syndrome risk. The introduction of this test has been a great advancement in medicine, as with the test being non-invasive it is safer. It also tests for two additional anomalies, including Edward’s syndrome and Patau’s syndrome. Mothers of any age may be at risk. You may also, upon request, find out the sex of your baby through this test.

The test is available to pregnant women from 10 weeks’ gestation. I would advise that every woman should consider the Harmony Test as it is simple, safe and gives you valuable information. Based on the results, you are able to assess the options available to you with your doctor, who can guide you further.

It is important to discuss these options during pregnancy with your GP, as there is a lot to be done before, during and after birth. Mothers and would-be mothers should have access to sound, safe and evidencebased medical advice throughout the whole pregnancy journey, as many changes happen to your body. Additionally, after giving birth there are lots of regular checks that you and your baby should be undergoing; with an obstetrician and gynaecologist for yourself, and a paediatrician for your child.

Remember, if you do opt for a Harmony Test, it’s important that you feel looked after and supported by your healthcare choice, so be sure to do your research.

Dr Anuj Chaturvedi, medical director and GP at HealthClic

At this age babies are increasingly mobile and inquisitive. They are also completely devoid of any form of risk awareness. They fall over repeatedly, stand up underneath things and walk or run into things. This amounts to a truly exhausting responsibility, so the more you can do in advance to prevent accidents the better.

Here are my top safety tips: • Never position a cot by a radiator as little ones can either overheat or burn themselves.

The cot shouldn’t be beside a window either.

• To prevent strangulation, do not hang drawstring bags over the cot or use cotbumpers, and clip blind cords out of reach (ideally choose cordless blinds instead).

• A one year old should not have a pillow.

• Be careful with changing tables – the safest place to change your baby is on the floor.

• Fit fireguards and radiator guards to prevent her burning herself.

• Use soft corner covers for sharp corners, and door stops to prevent doors slamming.

• Secure furniture, particularly bookcases and drawers, to the wall. They can easily topple and crush a child if they try to climb them.

• Children this age will climb on anything, so be careful of pot plants, chairs and furniture by windows and on balconies.

• Keep plastic bags (particularly nappy sacks), batteries and medication well out of reach.

• The Child Accident Prevention Trust (CAPT) has recommendations on safe gap widths for open windows and the spacing for banisters; 6.5cm (2.5in) is recommended until 18 months.

Emma Hammett, founder of First Aid For Life

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

OUR PANEL

Emma Hammett rs aid or i e or

Lucy Jones

Dr Anuj Chaturvedi

Lauren Dangoor

Dr Katharina Schramm

lucyjonesdietitian.co.uk

healthclic.co.uk

feedme2.co.uk

richmondpractice.co.uk

babyhampshire.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2017 | 55

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Time to Talk

THE NINTH MONTH Marina Fogle & Dr Chiara Hunt TH E SISTER S DISCUSS TH E FINAL MONTH OF PR EGNAN C Y y the time they reach their third trimester, most women are desperate to meet their baby.

Because babies are considered ‘term’ at 37 weeks, it’s worth making sure you are ready for the arrival by then. That said, every extra day they stay inside, up until 40 weeks, is beneficial, so take the opportunity to relax – it will be your last chance for a while!

B

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG

HOW YOU MAY BE FEELING • Most likely tired and exasperated – every movement will feel like an effort.

• You will hopefully have started maternity leave by now and may notice a strong nesting instinct.

You’ll find yourself tidying and sorting endlessly. Don’t overdo it!

The most important thing is to find the time to rest.

• The hormone changes that happen in late pregnancy will make your breasts swell (even more), and you may start

producing small amounts of the first breastmilk, colostrum.

You may also notice increased amounts of vaginal discharge.

• You may feel your baby’s head drop gradually lower into the pelvis and become ‘engaged’.

When this happens, your bump might reduce a bit and you will feel less pressure on your ribs and diaphragm. This might, however, result in you feeling more pressure on your perineum.

Some women feel like their baby is about to fall out! This won’t happen and is a normal sensation.

Don’t be too concerned about whether or not baby is engaged either; for some women this happens weeks before delivery, but for others, baby doesn’t ‘drop’ until labour has started.

• As you approach term you may start to feel cramps. Although you might not be noticing them, you will likely be having Braxton Hix contractions, which are a bit like practice contractions.

You might notice your stomach becoming hard and even looking slightly dome-shaped. These can start as early 30 weeks, and while they are a good sign that your body is slowly preparing for the birth of your baby, they are not a sign that labour is starting.

AND WHAT ABOUT BABY? • By now, baby is fully ready for the outside world. Her intestine is fully formed and contains a dark green sticky substance called meconium which is passed as your baby’s first poo.

• Your midwife will check how engaged your baby is by determining how much of her head she can feel before it emerges from the pelvis. To measure this, midwives assess how many ‘fifths’ of your baby’s head they can feel. So, if they can feel three-fifths of baby’s head in your abdomen, it is three-fifths ‘palpable’ or two-fifths ‘engaged’.

• Your midwife will be feeling

your baby at every appointment and if she suspects baby is breech (head up rather than down) she will suggest you go for a scan. We know it is safer for babies to be head down at birth, so she may well suggest an ECV (external cephalic version) where an obstetrician would try to turn the baby. Annoyingly, this procedure only works in about 50-60% of cases and if it’s not successful you will be advised that a c-section rather than a vaginal delivery is safest for your baby.

• Most babies at 40 weeks weigh around 3.5kg (8lb) although it is common for boys to weigh more than girls. The average head-totoe length is 50cm. bh Dr Chiara Hunt and Marina Fogle are the founders of The Bump Class. Their book, The Bump Class: An Expert Guide to Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond is available now. thebumpclass.com

babyhampshire.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2017 | 57

SHOPPING

THE REVIEW AS HOLIDAY SE ASON APPROACH E S, Laura Mason ROU N DS U P TH E BE ST TR AVEL COTS

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If you’re after a spacious design then this is the best pick by far. There’s plenty of room for toddlers to play during the day and then spread out while sleeping, all the while being safely confined. This updated version features even more breathable mesh and is available in a smart new grey colour. £214.99, babybjorn.co.uk

This revolutionary cot is a world first when it comes to providing a safe-to-use mosquito net. This means it is great for keeping bugs at bay during the summer or taking abroad. In addition to being a good travel cot, it can also be converted into a teepee that kids can decorate with washable fabric pens. £194.99 (£49.99 for the Teepee Pack), argos.co.uk

This multifunctional, adaptable crib is a secure, safe space for newborns as well as older children, as it can be unzipped to open up a larger space for your growing child. As a newborn crib, it features lots of breathable mesh to allow you to be able to see your baby, and the mattress is extra padded for supreme comfort. £130, boots.com

As one of the newest designs on the market, the Spacecot has fast-acting technology so you can say goodbye to those troublesome latches. Not only does it pop open in three seconds very easily but it’s sturdy to boot. It also folds down into a 6kg compact flat-pack, making carrying and storage easy and stress-free. £139.99, mothercare.com

This is a great option for family camping when you need something small, shielding and easy to carry.

Super lightweight – an impressive 2.5kg – it has great all-round protection thanks to its unique shape, mesh panels and foam mattress. It also collapses down into a mediumsized backpack making it effortless to lug about. £109.99, littlelife.com

Travel Cot Light

58 | MAY/JUN 2017 | babyhampshire.co.uk

SleepSpace

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NATURE AT PLAY

Babies take pleasure in the feel of organic materials, like wood and cotton. Help them make the most of playtime with these sensory and sustainable wooden toys. Clockwise from top left: the stacking alphabet and number blocks from Ooh Noo offer a contemporary twist on old-fashioned building bricks (£48, mollymeg.com); treat mini animal lovers to these adorable, colourful Sarah & Bendrix stacking toys for their nursery (£70, notonthehighstreet.com); spark their creativity with Twoodie’s stylish stackable ‘Gems’ (£101, twoodie.com); Ooh Noo’s sweet toy pram will help little legs learn to walk (£94, mollymeg.com).

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FOOD

TRIED AND TASTED

Daylesford’s new courses in its Cotswolds cookery school are perfect for new or expectant mothers. ‘Blossom: Cooking for Pregnancy’ will teach participants how food can help ease nausea, aid recovery and support breastfeeding. Or, if your child is of weaning age, check out ‘Bloom: Organic Home Cooking for Babies & Toddlers’.

You could even combine your trip with a visit to the beautiful Haybarn Spa. £95 per person, daylesford.com

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Organix Goodies has teamed up with The Gruffalo as its new ride arrives at Chessington World of Adventures.

Each pack – from the fruit bars to mini gingerbread men – will have a free entry voucher to the theme park for one adult or child. Available nationwide from May. From £1.39, organix.com

The Goodness Gracious Food Company has introduced three new organic purées. Inspired by the principles of Ayurveda, veg such as butternut squash and pumpkin are blended with spices known to soothe delicate tummies, including cumin. £1.55 each, goodnessgraciousfoods.com

THE NEW COOKBOOK FROM ELLA’S KITCHEN HAS TONS OF IDEAS FOR FEEDING THE WHOLE FAMILY. THE EASY FAMILY COOKBOOK: THE ORANGE ONE CONTAINS MORE THAN 100 RECIPES, AS WELL AS A MEAL PLANNER AND DISH ADAPTATIONS FOR INFANTS. IT’S THE FOURTH TITLE IN THE COOKBOOK SERIES. £14.99, OCTOPUS PUBLISHING

babyhampshire.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2017 | 61

FOOD

Tastes to

delight

PICCOLO’S N UTRITION SPECIALIST Alice Fotheringham SHAR E S H ER FAVOU RITE SPRINGTIM E R ECIPE S FOR BABY

his is the time for lots of delicious seasonal fruit and vegetables, which also coincides with new advice that suggests we should be eating even more vegetables and fruit. Rather than look at portion sizes and the number of portions a day, try to look at it in terms of variety – the more variety the better.

Start small by adding one extra vegetable to one of your meals each day, and work up from there. It’s also a good idea to think about the range of different fruits and vegetables you have over the week. Getting in a wide variety of colours is a much more realistic way of getting the vitamins and minerals you need, rather than focusing on a fixed number a day.

This way, you will find the numbers stack up without having to think about it!

T

62 | MAY/JUN 2017 | babyhampshire.co.uk

FOOD

Make in bulk and freeze individual portions

T O M AT O , L E N T I L A N D A N G E L - H A I R PA S TA Preparation: 10 minutes Cooking: 30 minutes Storage: Suitable for freezing, or store in a sealable container in the fridge for up to 2 days Makes 6 portions

This traditional dish combines small pieces of angel-hair pasta with a rich, sweet tomato and lentil sauce, cooked in olive oil with parsley.

INGREDIENTS

• dash of olive oil • ½ medium onion, peeled and chopped • 1 garlic clove, peeled and crushed • 1 medium carrot, peeled and chopped • ½ leek, trimmed and chopped • pinch of cinnamon • 227g chopped tinned tomatoes • 90g dried red lentils • 250ml low-salt vegetable stock (or water) • pinch of dried or chopped fresh parsley • 100g angel hair pasta METHOD

Heat the oil in a saucepan and cook the onion for 3-4 minutes or until soft. Add the garlic, carrot, leek and cinnamon. Cook for 5 minutes, occasionally stirring, until the carrot is tender.

Add the lentils, tinned tomatoes, vegetable stock and parsley. Bring to the boil, reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for 25 minutes.

While the lentils are cooking, bring a pan of water to the boil and add the pasta. Cook following the packet’s instructions. Drain and mix with the sauce or serve separately.

Tip: This sauce is brilliant for making pasta and meat dishes more hearty. You can also add extra veg, such as grated courgette or red pepper, for extra goodness.

babyhampshire.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2017 | 63

FOOD This Mediterraneaninspired pureé is packed with essential nutrients

BROCCOLI BITES Preparation: 10 minutes Cooking: 25 minutes Storage: Suitable for freezing Makes 18 bites

These quick, bitesize nibbles are a great snack for on the go or lunchboxes, and are fun for children to make as well.

INGREDIENTS

• 150g broccoli, frozen or fresh, chopped • 200g oats • 1 clove garlic, crushed • 60g mature Cheddar cheese, grated • 2 eggs, beaten • 1 tsp grainy mustard • 1 tsp dried oregano • pinch of sea salt and black pepper

T O M AT O & R E D P E P P E R Preparation: 8 minutes Cooking: 10 minutes Storage: Suitable for freezing, or store in a sealable container in the fridge for up to 2 days Makes 4 portions

This tasty tomato, carrot and pepper stew is a delicious Mediterranean staple.

INGREDIENTS

• dash of olive oil • 1 shallot or half a small onion, peeled and finely chopped • ½ garlic clove, peeled and crushed • 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced • ½ red pepper, cored and diced • 200g cherry tomatoes, halved • 75ml water • 2 basil leaves, chopped

METHOD

METHOD

Heat the olive oil in a deep, heavy bottomed pan and add the onions. Stir for a few minutes until the onions start to soften, then add the garlic and cook for another minute.

Add the carrot and red pepper and cook for a few minutes until both start to soften.

Add the tomatoes and cook for a few minutes until they start to soften, mushing them into the dish. Slowly add the water if it starts to dry out.

Finally add the basil, take off the heat and pureé into the desired consistency.

Preheat the oven to 200°C. Steam the broccoli until soft but not overcooked – around 7 minutes for fresh and 8 minutes if frozen.

Drain well, squeezing out any extra liquid, then add to a large bowl and mash.

Add the rest of the ingredients to the bowl and mix well.

Take out 1 tbsp of the mixture at a time and roll into small balls.

Place the balls on a lined or oiled baking sheet and cook for 25 minutes until they start to crisp up.

Tip: This delicious sauce can be enjoyed by baby and added to pastas, meat or fish to make a meal for the whole family.

Tip: These are great for kids’ lunchboxes or for lunch at home with a yoghurt or tomato sauce dip.

Alice Fotheringham is infant nutrition specialist at Piccolo. Piccolo is an organic baby food brand with roots in the Mediterranean approach to feeding children. The brand supports the NCT and gives 10% of its profits to food education. Head online to mylittlepiccolo.com to find out more and receive an exclusive discount off your next pouch.

64 | MAY/JUN 2017 | babyhampshire.co.uk

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travel

NEWS

WH ER EVER YOU R DE STINATION , TR AVEL IN ST YLE WITH BABY IN TOW

ECO RETREAT

If an Indian Ocean escape is on your wish list, check out the Six Senses Zil Pasyon resort on Félicité, a private island in the Seychelles. Opened late last year, the resort has been designed using sustainable materials to blend in with the island’s natural habitat. You'll even find free-range chickens in the organic garden. The spa reflects the resort’s eco credentials, with a saltwater pool and holistic therapies.

From €1,200 a night, sixsenses.com

BEAT THE BED BUGS If you’re taking baby on a trip to warmer climes, keep them protected from insect bites with The Gro Company’s innovative Insect Shield Grobag sleeping bag. The bag has odourless built-in protection which will last through 70 washes. Available in two designs. £43, gro.co.uk

MAKE YOUR PEACE Nestled in a quiet corner of Mayfair, five-star family hotel Dukes London is offering a new package to help its guests really relax. Perfect for frazzled new parents or mothersto-be, the Beditation Butler service includes a range of herbal teas on turndown, a selection of meditative podcasts and a complimentary Floris London candle. And while you practice those breathing exercises, your female butler will even run you a bubble bath. Rooms from £311, plus £45 for the package, dukeshotel.com

The Insect Shield Grobag will ensure protection against mosquitoes, ticks, flies, fleas and more

RESEARCH CONDUCTED BY ONLINE TRAVEL AGENCY SUNSHINE.CO.UK HAS FOUND THAT ONE IN 18 BABIES BORN LAST YEAR WERE CONCEIVED ON HOLIDAY, WITH THE CARIBBEAN, ITALY AND FRANCE NAMED AS THE TOP BABY-MAKING DESTINATIONS.

babyhampshire.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2017 | 67

Encourage their first steps to be full of awe and wonder

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Beyond Expectations… NURSERY, PREP & SENIOR SCHOOL CO-ED, 2–18, DAY & BOARDING

Places available for September 2017 To make an appointment to visit please telephone 01794 515737

Come and see what we do best!

Hampshire Collegiate Prep School, Embley Park, Hampshire SO51 6ZA Telephone: 01794 515737 Prep School admissions email: julia.piper@hampshirecs.org.uk www.hampshirecs.org.uk 68 | MAY/JUN17 | babyhampshire.co.uk

DEVELOPMENT

night nanny Z

DIARY OF A

Z

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AS TH R EE-MONTH- OLD POLLY ’S ROUTIN E TAKE S A TU R N , Georgie Bateman IS ON HAN D TO R EBUILD MUM’S CON FIDEN CE

ver the last week, Polly has seemed disinterested in her 2am feed, and on my last night with the family she didn’t wake until her 4am feed. Laura, her mum, was delighted. But I am not there every night and one day I got a panicky text from Laura: “She didn’t do it last night, she woke at 2.45am, so I fed her. Have I messed it all up?”

I call her back to explain that development takes time, and that it can often seem like two steps forward, one step back. Polly is doing well developing her sleep, linking her cycles and settling herself, but we mustn’t expect too much of her. So if she wakes for a feed in the middle of the night, she must be given it.

“It’s helpful for you to watch how she feeds – don’t worry if she doesn’t seem to be very keen and don’t try to force her to take more than she wants. It’s a process, so to feed her at 2.45 isn’t going to mess things up, it’s still a step in the right direction.”

Laura laughs and her voice sounds relieved.

“So what you’re saying is that these things don’t happen overnight! It just seems as though they’re more successful when you are here, than when I’m in charge.”

The following night I am on duty again pondering Laura’s comment. Part of my role is to build parents’ confidence in their own ability to look after their babies and not rely on me. We discuss the previous night before I go to take over care of Polly.

“You did exactly the right thing,” I reassure Laura. “You followed your instincts and gave Polly what she needed. Bringing up a baby isn’t really a question of doing it by the book.

Books, websites, online forums are all useful to inform yourself, but I do feel your instinct should override anything else. No one, not even me, knows Polly like you do. I’ve had more experience of babies than you have, but I haven’t had any more experience of Polly

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

O

Bringing up a baby isn’t about doing it ‘by the book’ – trust your instincts

than you have – much less, in fact.”

Laura smiles and I go upstairs to check on Polly. Sleeping peacefully, breathing slowly and deeply, I can tell she is in a deep sleep and probably won’t wake for several hours.

But even I don’t know what might happen between 2am and 7am, so I am prepared for anything. The next week or so might be a bit of a muddle while Polly works out how to sleep for longer, and my role is to support her in this, enabling her to do it at her own pace.

The important element is to keep the rest of her routine in place as far as possible, so I write some notes in the Sleep Diary for Laura to read the following day.

“Remember that the anchor points of Polly’s day are 7pm and 7am. We can also be fairly certain that she won’t wake up after her dream feed at 10pm until at least 2am and hopefully 2.45am. As Polly works this out, she may end up having several short feeds between 3am and 7am, and you can follow her lead. But even if she has a big feed at 6am, you must, must wake her at 7am for her breakfast feed – even if this isn’t very much.

That will keep her day on track and maintain the structure she is used to.”

Sure enough, my night with Polly isn’t much better than Laura’s had been. Although she sleeps until 3.30am, she then wakes at the end of every sleep cycle until 6.15am and I find myself taking her in to Laura several times because all the expressed milk has been used.

At 7am I have to wake Polly and I take her to Laura, who looks at me groggily.

“What a night,” she mumbles, “What has been happening? It feels like we’ve lost any consistency we ever had.”

“Don’t worry, we’ll get there,” I encourage her. And Polly smiles in agreement. bh Contact Georgie at Night Nannies on 01794 301762 or georgie@nightnannies.com.

Also check out the Facebook page, Night Nannies South of England, for more tips.

babyhampshire.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2017 | 69

Prep School - Day, Weekly & Full Boarding 8-13 Years | Nursery & Pre-Prep 3-7 Years

“A First-Rate Education” ISI 2014

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Highfield Open Morning Saturday 6th May 9.30am - 12 noon

Brookham Pre-Prep & Nursery Bespoke visits – please call to arrange

For more information or to arrange a bespoke visit please call 01428 728000 www.highfieldschool.org.uk | Liphook, Hampshire GU30 7LQ

CHAFYN GROVE Excellent Co-educational Day & Boarding School from 3-13

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PRE-PREP EARLY YEARS

Open Morning Saturday, 6th May 10.00am – 12.30pm Headmaster’s Talk - 11.00am www.chafyngrove.co.uk

01722 333423

Chafyn Grove, Bourne Avenue, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP1 1LR

70 | MAY/JUN17 | babyhampshire.co.uk

OPEN MORNING Friday 12th May 2017

Independent co-educational preparatory day, flexi and full-time boarding school, ages 2-13. Lymington, Hampshire SO41 5ZG. Please contact the School Registrar on 01590 613 303 or email registrar@walhampton.com

www.walhampton.com Registered Charity No. 307330

education

PREPARING FOR THE NEXT STEP

Researching schools

EDUCATION

NEWS

EVERY THING YOU N EED TO KN OW IN AN D OUT OF TH E CL ASSROOM

SMALL TALK

If you want to know more about schooling and are keen to plan for the future, then check out our sister title. Published twice a year, The Guide to Independent Schools is essential reading for parents looking to continue their child’s educational journey within the independent school sector. The Guide covers each stage of the school career, from nursery to sixth form, and includes a comprehensive directory of independent schools across the United Kingdom as well as expert advice to help you make the right educational decisions for your child’s future.

ORDER THE LATEST ISSUE NOW! Visit chelseamagazines. com/independent-schoolparent or call 020 7349 3700.

The Guide to Independent Schools is also available for £5.95 in selected supermarkets and all good newsagents.

A study to help pre-school children with language problems has been launched by the Solent NHS Trust and researchers at the University of Portsmouth.

The programme records the child’s speech abilities using a small device, the results of which will then be used to treat the problem and help parents understand how to encourage development. port.ac.uk

GREEN, NOT MEAN Bestselling author and illustrator Ed Vere is back with a new picture book. Grumpy Frog follows the amphibian as he learns about compromise, friendship and the power of apology. He may even manage to get rid of his grumpiness! Out 4 May. £6.99, Puffin

PLAY SAFE Is your child’s activity group CAA accredited? The Children’s Activities Association is an independent, not-for-profit company committed to raising standards across the industry. Classes authorised by the CAA have been monitored against a range of issues, from health and safety to training. Check the website for members. childrensactivitiesassociation.org

Join Grumpy Frog as he learns about tolerance and kindness

WALKER BOOKS HAS JOINED FORCES WITH SLEEP BRAND THE GRO COMPANY TO LAUNCH THE BEDTIME BOOK CLUB. RUNNING ONLINE THROUGHOUT THE YEAR, EACH SESSION WILL FOCUS ON A NEW PICTURE BOOK. THERE’S EVEN A CHANCE TO WIN GOODIES, TOO. PICTUREBOOKPARTY.CO.UK

babyhampshire.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2017 | 71

EDUCATION

ASK THE EXPERTS We put your education questions to those in the know

To best support your child, immerse yourself in what they’re learning at nursery school

HOW CAN WE SUPPORT OUR CHILD THROUGH THEIR EARLY EDUCATION TO ENSURE THEY GET THE MOST OUT OF IT?

HOW IMPORTANT IS OUTDOOR LEARNING IN THE EARLY YEARS? Jo Webbern, head of Bedales Pre-Prep, Dunannie, says: A recent report suggested that a huge 80% of teachers were concerned that the British assessment system ‘hinders the development of the whole child’. When asked to suggest a single change, many recommended the provision of ‘free space’ where pupils can do things they enjoy without having to think about exam scores.

Bedales founder John Badley believed that from an early age, children should be encouraged to be curious through ‘concrete’ learning, and encouraged a strong connection with nature. We take pride in seeing children develop their knowledge and appreciation of the natural world through outdoor projects.

The time they spend identifying birds, growing vegetables and caring for lambs is as much a part of their development and education as is time spent in the classroom and library.

MEET THE EXPERTS

Christine McLelland North Bridge House

72 | MAY/JUN 2017 | babyhampshire.co.uk

Jo Webbern Bedales Pre-Prep

Harriet Povey St Swithun’s Junior School

HOW DO YOU DEVELOP COMMUNICATION AND LANGUAGE IN NURSERY-AGED CHILDREN? Harriet Povey, nursery teacher at St Swithun’s Junior School, says: Young children develop speech and language by listening, watching, exploring and interacting with others in a language-rich setting. Play that develops language encompasses storytelling, dialogue, experimenting and problem-solving. When adults join in, they introduce new words and model language. They also provide opportunities to talk about the activity.

The role of other children at school is also important. Talking to their peers about the weather and foods they prepared for snack time, for example, helps to build a child’s communication skills. Regular circle times, group games, the chance to share books, singing and rhymes all reinforce this learning.

Parents are vital in helping nursery teachers talk to the children about what is meaningful to them. At St Swithun’s, we are keen to understand the interests of all new children, and we ask parents to provide a scrapbook of their child at home with family. Building on children’s everyday experiences develops their language, as well as their confidence, providing a solid foundation for future learning and life.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

Christine McLelland, head of North Bridge House Nursery & Pre-Prep, says: Whether you’re a first-time parent or have done it all before, you no doubt feel the pressure to progress your child’s development. Surprisingly though, it’s not all about filling their brains with every little bit of information. It’s far more about taking a well-considered, piecemeal approach that’s in tune with what they’re learning or will be learning at school.

First of all, try to hold back from teaching them the letters of the alphabet. Teaching and learning has come a long way over the years: it’s now known that children do not learn to read simply by reciting the alphabet, but by sounding out the letters phonetically.

Reinforce this by reading to your child, singing songs and engaging in conversation. This will help to familiarise them with phonetic sounds and broaden their vocabulary.

The best piece of advice a parent can take is to read to your child as much as possible.

Numbers are taught most effectively in a similar way to letters. Naturally, we want to teach our children to count to 10 but the most valuable lesson is in recognising the digits. Do they know the value of each number? Can they count out a given number of objects?

These are the kinds of things your child will be learning at nursery school.

Which brings me to the most important point: to best support your child at nursery, immerse yourself in their education. Take advantage of parent-child mornings, holiday clubs and parent workshops where offered.

A leading independent day school offering outstanding education for girls (3–11) and boys (3–7)

Open Afternoon Friday 9 June 2017, 1.30pm Please contact us to book your place

01962 835750

“The quality of pupils’ academic and other achievements is excellent” – ISI report 2017

www.stswithuns.com

St Nicholas’ School FLEET

•

HAMPSHIRE

An independent day school for boys and girls aged 3 - 7 and girls aged 3 - 16

Open Evening

Thursday 11th May 2017 6-8pm

Open Morning

Saturday 7th October 2017 10am-1pm

• Small class sizes • Inspiring teachers • First rate facilities • Outstanding results

st-nicholas.hants.sch.uk

01252 850121

HIGHEST INDEPENDENT SCHOOL RATING

“Excellent”

ISI INSPECTION OCT 2015

babyhampshire.co.uk | MAY/JUN17 | 73

Forensic Science Trail and Open Morning at Portsmouth High Junior School

Saturday 10 June 10am to 12 noon This event is suitable for children from 3 to 11 years.

Book online at www.portsmouthhigh.co.uk

An independent school for girls from Nursery upwards

Part of the Girls’ Day School Trust network of schools

O P E N D A IL Y

Get hands-on with our full schedule of fun activities, which run throughout the day. Meet friendly farm animals.

Plenty of indoor and outdoor play areas. Farm Produce Shop and Gift Shop.

UNDER

3s Are FREE!

Off A35 • Ashurst • New Forest Tel. 023 8029 2837

For event details & much more click onto:

www.longdownfarm.co.uk

74 | MAY/JUN17 | babyhampshire.co.uk

OUT AND ABOUT

mini

AGENDA

Charlot te Tomlinson-White ROU N DS U P HAM PSHIR E’S BE ST EVENTS Sarah & Duck’s Big Top Birthday

Sarah & Duck’s Big Top Birthday

PHOTOGRAPHY: PAMELA RAITH

NEW THEATRE ROYAL 20-24 Guildhall Walk, Portsmouth PO1 2DD 023 9264 9000 newtheatreroyal.com This new stage show will take little ones on an adventure, with a blend of puppetry, storytelling and toe-tapping music. Join Sarah and Duck from the BAFTA award-winning animated series, as they plan a circus-themed party for Scarf Lady in their garden.

Admission: £12 each; family ticket, £44.

Wednesday 31 May, 2pm.

Milkshake! Live

Babe: The Sheep Pig

Children’s Fun Day

KINGS THEATRE Albert Road, Southsea, Portsmouth PO5 2SH 023 9282 8282 kingsportsmouth.co.uk

NUFFIELD THEATRE University Road, Southampton SO17 1TR 023 8067 1771 nuffieldtheatre.co.uk

BURSLEDON BRICKWORKS Swanwick Lane, Southampton SO31 7HB 01489 576248 bursledonbrickworks.org.uk

This new live show is sure to delight. Venture on a journey through the world’s favourite fairytales with Milkshake! favourites, including Bob the Builder, Shimmer & Shine and two presenters, in this allsinging, all-dancing musical masterpiece.

Admission: Adults, from £16.50; children, from £14.50.

Monday 29 May, 12pm and 4pm.

Adapted by Olivier award winner David Wood, follow the incredible story of one piglet’s rise to become the worldfamous sheep pig. With plenty of laughter, thrills, stunning puppetry and original music, it’s a heart-warming tale of friendship, adventure and bravery for all the family.

Admission: From £10 each.

Tuesday 30 May to Sunday 4 June, times vary.

Great for kids and big kids alike!

The day is set to be packed with a whole host of children’s activities. The entry price includes the museum, where all the old machinery will be working. Hampshire Narrow Gauge Railway Trust will be running its trains, too, and the café will be open.

Admission: Adults, £6; children, £4; family ticket, £15.

Sunday 28 May, 11am to 4pm.

babyhampshire.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2017 | 75

Kapers OUTKiting AND ABOUT

Half Term Duck Trail

Rooftop Walkway

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show

Kiting Kapers ROYAL VICTORIA COUNTRY PARK Netley Abbey, Southampton SO31 5GA 023 8045 5157 hants.gov.uk

CBeebies’ Mister Maker and The Shapes Live!

MAYFLOWER THEATRE Commercial Road, Southampton SO15 1GE 023 80 711811 mayflower.org.uk

Let’s go fly a kite! Join this crafty workshop to make your own kite, then take it outdoors for a test run. Suitable for children aged three to eight years. Booking is required.

Admission: £6 per child, accompanying adults go free.

Tuesday 30 May and Thursday 1 June, 10am to 12pm or 2pm to 4pm.

Join your arts and crafts hero, Mister Maker, for his first ever theatre tour. Packed full of arty fun, there’ll be a big ‘make’ to take part in and songs to join in with. It’s an interactive arty adventure for all the family.

Admission: £16 each.

Sunday 4 June, 12pm and 3pm.

Fairy Festival

THE VYNE Sherborne St John, Basingstoke RG24 9HL nationaltrust.org.uk

BUTSER ANCIENT FARM Chalton Lane, Charlton, Waterlooville PO8 0BG butserancientfarm.co.uk Visit the roundhouse enclosure to celebrate all things fairy!

Little ones can create magic wands to take home, and have their faces painted ready for an audience with the fairy queen.

Then enjoy a hot chocolate while listening to Faye’s Fables.

Admission: Adults, £8; children, £4; under-fives go free.

Sunday 11 June, 2pm.

76 | MAY/JUN 2017 | babyhampshire.co.uk

Rooftop Walkway

If you’re feeling fit, you can walk up the 74 steps to the top, but there’s also a handy lift.

Decorate a roof tile and enjoy the beautiful 360° views. Don’t forget to drop some money down the special chute, too – you’ll hear a surprising noise when it hits the ground!

Admission: Adults, £13; children, £6.50.

From Monday 1 May, 10am to 4pm.

Mini Beast Week STAUNTON COUNTRY PARK Middle Park Way, Havant PO9 5HB hants.gov.uk Children can embrace their creative side with crafts, venture out on a mini-beast trail, plus, get up close and personal with some of the biggest bugs around!

Admission: Standard farm admission applies; a small charge for some crafts and activities may also apply.

Saturday 27 May to Sunday 4 June, 10.30am to 3.30pm.

Nature Festival GILBERT WHITE & THE OATES COLLECTIONS Gilbert White’s House, Selborne, Alton GU34 3JH gilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk This festival promises to be a great day out! Enjoy stalls, guided walks and nature games, plus live demos from leading organisations such as the RSPB and Hampshire Bat Group.

Admission: Adults, £7; children, £3.

Saturday 27 May, 10.30am to 5pm.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show THE HAYMARKET Wote Street, Basingstoke RG21 7NE 01256 844244 anvilarts.org.uk Featuring a menagerie of 75 lovable puppets, this show faithfully adapts four of Eric Carle’s stories – The Artist Who Painted a Blue Horse, Mister Seahorse, The Very Lonely Firefly and, of course, The Very Hungry Caterpillar.

Admission: £12 each.

Tuesday 30 May, 2pm.

South Downs Green Fair SUSTAINABILITY CENTRE Droxford Road, Petersfield GU32 1HR 01730 823166 sustainability-centre.org A fantastic day out for the whole family with plenty to do and see. Local food and drink stalls will be offering Fair Trade and organic wares, there will be live music and talks, and plenty of activities, including camp crafts and outdoor cooking.

Admission: Adults, £7; children, £3.

Sunday 7 May, 10am to 5pm.

OUT AND ABOUT

Nature Festival

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt

PHOTOGRAPHY: PAUL HARRIS, NATIONAL TRUST IMAGES/OSKAR PROCTOR, NATIONAL TRUST IMAGES/KAREN LEGG, PAMELA RAITH PHOTOGRAPHY, BUSYLIZZY MUM LTD 2017,

Busy Lizzy Baby Massage and Mummy & Me Yoga

Sylvanian Families Shopping Weekend

Lepe into Action

Dinosaur World

Half Term Duck Trail

A Strange New Space

LEPE COUNTRY PARK Southampton SO45 1AD 023 8089 9108 hants.gov.uk

MAYFLOWER THEATRE Commercial Road, Southampton SO15 1GE mayflower.org.uk

WINCHESTER CITY MILL Bridge Street, Winchester SO23 9BH nationaltrust.org.uk

THE SPRING ARTS & HERITAGE CENTRE 56 East Street, Havant PO9 1BS thespring.co.uk

Suitable for children of all ages, enjoy a day of sporting activities and have a go at cycling, archery, cricket, boules and orienteering. There are even accessible activities for young people with disabilities.

Admission: Free, donations welcome. Parking charges apply.

Wednesday 31 May, 10am to 4pm.

This new dino-mite adventure is suitable for little ones aged three years and over. Explore unchartered territories to discover a prehistoric world of remarkably life-like dinosaurs.

Admission: £15.50 each.

Sunday 28 May, 11.30am and 2.30pm.

One stormy night, thousands of little yellow ducks were washed overboard from a cargo ship.

Now, 10 of them have reached the Mill! Track down the ducks to hear their story – there are prizes for all who successfully complete the challenge.

Admission: Adults, £4.40; children, £2.20.

Saturday 27 May to Sunday 4 June, 10am to 4pm.

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt PRINCES HALL Princes Way, Aldershot GU11 1NX princeshall.com This thrilling adventure features puppetry and songs. A family go on the expedition of a lifetime – running down grassy banks, wading through a cold river, squelching over oozy mud, stumbling into a dark forest, then peering into a cave… what will they find?

Admission: £13.50 each.

Tuesday 23 May to Thursday 25 May, performance times vary.

Busy Lizzy Baby Massage and Mummy & Me Yoga WINCHESTER DISCOVERY CENTRE Jewry Street, Winchester SO23 8SB busylizzywinchester.co.uk Busy Lizzy is an award-winning family club offering a varied timetable for new mums and their little ones. Learn how to massage your baby in Baby Massage, or strengthen your core with gentle yoga.

Admission: Membership from £56 per month.

Every Wednesday; Baby Massage, 11am to 11.30am; Mummy & Me Yoga, 11.40am to 12.20pm.

Half Term Squawks Olympics

Join space-obsessed Amira as she searches for a safe new space in this captivating one-woman show. With puppetry, music and physical theatre, it’s perfect for both children (aged four and over) and adults alike.

Admission: £8 each.

Saturday 6 May, 11.30am.

Sylvanian Families Shopping Weekend

ROBIN HILL COUNTRY PARK Downend Road, Newport, Isle Of Wight, PO30 2NU robin-hill.com

GILL NETHERCOTT CENTRE & WHITCHURCH SILK MILL Winchester Street, Whitchurch RG28 7AL 01256 895511 gillnethercottcentre.org.uk

Join the Squawk birds, Bonita and Diaz, for team games taking place every day. Bounce your way through the Squawks Hopper Challenge and tackle the inflatable obstacle course.

Admission: From £15.50 each; under-fours go free.

Saturday 27 May to Sunday 4 June, 10am to 6pm.

Now in its 10th year, this shopping event is a must for Sylvanian Families fans! See a range of products, get arty with crafts and meet your favourite Sylvanian characters. There will be musical performances, too.

Admission: Free.

Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 June, 10am to 4pm.

babyhampshire.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2017 | 77

The First Hippo on the Moon

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THEATRE ROYAL WINCHESTER Jewry Street, Winchester SO23 8SB theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk From the bonkers brain of David Walliams comes this explosively funny space adventure. With puppetry, music, mayhem and a giant space race to the moon.

Admission: £13 each.

Thursday 25 to Sunday 28 May, performance times vary.

Breakin’ Convention: International Festival of Hip Hop Dance Theatre MAYFLOWER THEATRE Commercial Road, Southampton SO15 1GE mayflower.org.uk This Sadler’s Wells project is curated and hosted by UK hip hop pioneer Jonzi D. It promises to be an awe-inspiring weekend of live performances, dance workshops, graffiti, DJs and freestyle sessions. Suitable for ages two years and up.

Admission: From £12.50 each.

Tuesday 16 and Wednesday 17 May, 7pm.

The Sooty Show THE HAYMARKET Wote Street, Basingstoke RG21 7NE 01256 844244 anvilarts.org.uk Sooty is back in a new show guaranteed to get the whole family giggling. Expect magic, music and mayhem with buckets-full of audience participation. You’ll even have the chance to meet Richard Cadell and Sooty after the show!

Admission: £13 each.

Saturday 10 June, 11am and 2.30pm.

Pirate Plunder

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BLACKGANG CHINE Near Ventnor, Isle Of Wight, PO38 2HN 01983 730330 blackgangchine.com In celebration of the island’s Festival of the Sea, join Captain Cliff Edge for some good-old swashbuckling fun. Learn how to sword fight, take part in the smugglers’ treasure hunt and don’t forget to dress up!

Admission: £19.50 each.

Saturday 17 and 24, and Sunday 18 and 25 June, 10am to 5pm.

worth £39 HOW TO SUBSCRIBE Visit us

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01442 820 580 and quote CBHAPAD7 * Gift offer applies to Direct Debit orders only. GIFTS available while stocks last

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PHOTOGRAPHY: CREDIT DAVID PARRYPA WIRE.

The First Hippo on the Moon

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Groups & Classes Ari wears cotton dungarees, £44, and linen shirt, £39, both La Coqueta.

Cotton socks, £4, and textile pram shoes, £10, both Marks & Spencer.

STOCKISTS Aden + Anais adenandanais.co.uk Bob & Blossom bobandblosso.co.uk Bonpoint bonpoint.com

A SELEC TION OF LOCAL AC TIVITIE S FOR YOU AN D YOU R LIT TLE ON E

BABY SIGNING, THE FUN WAY

MONKEY MUSIC

Classes for babies from birth to 24 months Written by speech and language therapists, Sing and Sign runs awardwinning classes that teach through the use of music and specially produced songs. The classes target important words using instruments, props and pictures, which can also be used by parents to sign at home. Sing and Sign Babes uses music, sensory stimulation and basic signing to help build the framework for good communication.

For classes in Southampton, Eastleigh, Chandler’s Ford and Totton, contact Heidi on 07778 064016.

For classes in Fareham, Hedge End, Gosport, Portsmouth and Southsea, contact Tracy on 07902 474218.

For email addresses and more information, visit singandsign.com

Venues located across Hampshire At the heart of Monkey Music is a high quality, progressive and educational music curriculum that supports every aspect of a young child’s development. Running small, age-specific classes for babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers, Monkey Music introduces music to your little one in a way that they can easily understand and enjoy – nurturing a lifetime of music.

With a winning combination of original and traditional songs, gentle dances, fascinating sounds, amazing instruments and colourful props, the children are so busy having fun, they don’t notice how much they’re learning! Log onto the Monkey Music website to find your nearest class. monkeymusic.co.uk

BABIES, TODDLERS AND INDEPENDENT STARZ BALLET® CLASSES

FOR LITTLE LEARNERS

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PHOTOGRAPHY: TOM LEIGHTON

Rachel Riley rachelriley.co.uk Smallable en.smallable.com Stella McCartney stellamccartney.com The White Company thewhitecompany.com Tutto Piccolo childrensalon.com

£66 per 12-class term At Starz Ballet®, there is a fun class syllabus with lessons specific to each age group from babies right up to seven years. Boys and girls learn to dance under the direction of a qualified dance teacher. Most onehour sessions include a 30-minute fun but structured ballet class, plus 30 minutes of social time, with hot and cold refreshments for everyone.

With over 70 classes each week across Hampshire, why not book your free trial? The company also offers Starz Ballet® Parties, from only £65.

0333 1234 140 balletbabes@starzacademyuk.com facebook./starz.ballet starzballet.com

From babies to 11 years Check out the Little Discovery classes for ages six months to 24 months old. With a new topic every week, babies explore and investigate the world around us through senses with music, colours and shapes. Little Maths Rhythm and Shapes and Little Science sessions nurture curiosity while making a child’s first steps into the world of numbers and science that much easier. Little Maths, for two to four year-olds, builds their confidence with numbers. While Little Science and Big Science, for ages between three to 11 years, introduces new scientific concepts through discussions, demonstrations and hands-on science experiments.

0800 092 1082 hampshire.littlehouseofscience.com babyhampshire.co.uk | MAY/JUN 2017 | 81

BUSINESS Cameron and Akin believe it’s important to listen to and learn from their customers

INSPIRE AKIN ONAL & CAMERON MILLER

What inspired you to set up MORI in the first place?

Cam: The idea came to us when we were looking for gifts for our nieces and nephews. We wanted something useful and thoughtful but special enough to give as a gift. We were really surprised to discover that the essentials we found on the high street were not only poorly designed, but also mass-produced from synthetic fabrics. We decided to set out on a journey to offer an alternative, with beautifully crafted, good quality pieces for babies.

about their war with fastening 10 or more poppers while their baby is crying, we worked on a zipper sleepsuit alternative. We will launch it very soon and I know that my brother-in-law at least will be super happy.

So are your nieces and nephews an inspiration for the brand?

Akin: Definitely. My niece Su, who now lives in Prague, was one of the first to try MORI. She helped us choose the softest bamboo and organic cotton fabric, which has become our signature. Our MORI family has grown, with almost 5,000 babies wearing the pieces in more than 50 countries, and we take inspiration from them all daily.

We believe it is so important to listen to and learn from our customers. For example, after hearing from so many fathers

Why is being organic important?

Akin: I can talk for hours about why our fabric is truly the best for baby’s skin; it is ultra soft, naturally breathable and helps maintain the right body temperature. However, we also care about our planet and its limited resources, as well as our society. Bamboo grows much faster than cotton and consumes a lot less water. Also, unlike leaders of the fast fashion industry, we make sure our factories don’t outsource the production

82 | MAY/JUN 2017 | babyhampshire.co.uk

We meet the duo behind organic baby essentials brand MORI to find out more about the business to smaller and unaudited shops.

We visit their facilities often and oversee the entire supply chain.

Describe a typical day for you.

Akin: I start most days with coffee and jumbo oats. I then read through my emails and answer the urgent ones at home before going into the office.

I’m a bit of a workaholic – aside from meetings with the team, manufacturers or investors, I am otherwise glued to my phone or

computer screens. I also make sure to put aside an hour to connect with customers. I read through their comments, write back to them or even reach out to those who haven’t made a purchase for some time to find out how we can improve their experience with us.

What is your advice for anyone wanting to start a business?

Cam: Never lose sight of the forest through the trees. You have to build your dream one tree at a time. It is a very fulfilling experience and you need to take your time to do it. But at times, it is very easy to lose yourselves in the unnecessary details and get demotivated. That’s why it is important to take a step back to see the progress you have made.

What are your plans for 2017?

Akin: This year is an exciting one.

We’ll be launching new products, including the new bedding range to complete our Sleep Time collection and help babies (and parents) get the one thing they all need – more sleep! bh babymori.com

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